Six men and a boy arrested after night of violence
SIX men and a 16-year-old boy have now been arrested in connection with violence on the streets of Swansea.
Cars were set on fire and missiles were thrown at police after a vigil in the Mayhill area on Thursday.
Resident Adam Romain described how there was “literally a riot” on the doorstep of his home as his terrified family cowered inside.
On Saturday, South Wales Police said three men and a boy had been arrested on suspicion of unlawful violence. They were described as “local males aged 36, 20, 18 and 16”.
Last night, police revealed a further three men, aged 18, 21 and 23, were also being held in connection with violent disorder.
Of the seven who have been arrested, two – aged 21 and 23 – remain in police custody and five have been released on bail with a number of strict conditions, including a nighttime curfew
Detective Superintendent Gareth Morgan, who is leading the investigation, said that “further arrests” are expected.
A police statement last week said: “There have been no further incidents of violence or disorder since Thursday night and increased patrols will continue over the weekend. Officers wish to thank those residents who have already come forward and provided witness statements and video footage. However, they are also appealing for more information.”
Seven officers suffered scratches and bruises when they were pelted with missiles but did not require hospital treatment.
Det Supt Morgan said: “There are many residents who were present at the scene during the disturbance and will no doubt know the identity of those who caused damage and threatened violence.
“I urge the public not to protect those who showed such disregard for the community of Mayhill and to give us the names of those who can been seen on social media footage. We have a dedicated team of detectives carrying out extensive inquiries to identify those involved and we are ready to act upon any information received.”
He added that “those who want to hand themselves in can do so at Swansea Central Police Station”.
Police were patrolling the area in Mayhill over the weekend amid claims that the police response on the night was too slow and inadequate.
■ Anyone with any photographs or video footage is being asked to submit them to https://mipp. police.uk/peration/62SWP20B23PO2.
■ You can also contact police with any other information at https://bit.ly/SWPReportOnline or on Facebook/Twitter quoting occurrence 2100176569.