Coastguard called out over lockdown breach
A MAN has been arrested and three others warned after the coastguard and police were called to reports of a group breaking lockdown rules.
The four men had travelled from Cardiff to Langland Bay in Mumbles to go fishing over the bank holiday weekend.
They were issued with fixed penalty notices and warned about breaking coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
One of the men was then arrested on warrant for failing to appear at court and remanded in custody.
A teenager was also arrested in Llanelli
at the weekend for breaking lockdown rules six times.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “With HM Coastguard colleagues we attended reports of men fishing at Langland Bay at about 1.50pm on Sunday.
“Four men from Cardiff were located and stated they were aware of the Government restrictions.
“They were all issued with fixed penalty notices for breaching Covid19 restrictions.
“One of the group, a 38-year-old man was arrested on warrant for failing to appear at court. He was remanded into custody to appear at court this morning.”
The police have said they are being left with “no choice” but to issue fixed penalties and prosecutions due to the small minority still flouting the rules.
A spokesman said: “The vast majority of the public have understood the need for these restrictions and have made real sacrifices to ensure they protect themselves, their loved ones and the NHS. A small minority, however, continue to show a complete disregard for the rules in place and consequently the lives of themselves and others. Flagrant breaches of the restrictions risks lives and will put the NHS under unnecessary pressure.
“The principle guidance is clear: do not travel unless essential, and do not meet with others from outside of your household.
“Our officers and staff will continue to engage with our communities but with the restrictions now firmly embedded, the public can expect to see enforcement action taken against those who continue to flout the rules.
“We don’t want to issue fixed penalties or prosecute people, but we are being left with no choice.
“We appreciate that the measures imposed are unlike anything our generation has ever experienced, and staying at home for prolonged periods of time can be difficult.
“However, these measures have been imposed for the benefit of us all and it vital that we all recognise the part we have to play to slow the spread of the virus.”