Police identify six theft suspects

AN OPERATION to tackle crime in the middle of a South Wales town is getting results, police have said.

According to South Wales Police (SWP), during the past week, six people suspected of carrying out thefts in the centre of Pontypridd during October and November have been identified.

A spokeswoman said: “So far two have been arrested and charged, one was reported for summons and arrest enquiries are ongoing for the others.

“Last night, another two men were arrested – one for breach of his criminal behaviour order and another who was wanted in connection with a burglary.”

The news comes after the force launched Operation Magenta Accolade, which was aimed at increasing patrols and specifically targeting bad behaviour and drugs in the centre of the Rhondda Cynon Taf town, which has seen arrests and stopsearches.

SWP said they were providing support to the town centre neighbourhood policing team, and it meant extra patrols in “key areas” including horse patrols and meeting with residents and MP Owen Smith, which took place last month.

Local Policing Inspector Hannah Durham said: “Every day the neighbourhood policing is patrolling the town centre to deter criminals and anti-social behaviour.

“However, this shows that if people are intent on coming to our town to cause problems for others we will take action against them.

“We are working closely with partners to address some long-term concerns but in the meantime we will continue to take action against those who are causing problems for others.”

Last month, police said the operation was multi-agency, looking at enforcement but also helping people involved in drugs. Three arrests were made and eight people stopped and searched at that time.

Others were referred to Dyfodol, a support service for people with drug and alcohol issues, who spoke to 14 people in total.