46 arrests in wake of ‘disorder’
POLICE investigating an alleged large-scale disturbance in Cardiff have arrested more than 40 people across South Wales and other parts of the UK.
In Cardiff 20 people – 15 men, four teenage boys and a woman – have been arrested after three people were left in hospital following the incident.
There have been 26 further arrests in the following police force areas: the Metropolitan Police Service (18), Thames Valley Police (four), Bedfordshire (one), Hertfordshire (one), Surrey (one) and Gwent (one).
The majority of the 46 arrests took place on September 22 and all of those arrested remain on police bail.
Police were called to Shirenewton gypsy and traveller site in Wentloog Avenue, Trowbridge, Cardiff, shortly after 4pm on Sunday, March 21.
A 27-year-old man received “potentially life-changing injuries” while the two other men, aged 25 and 55, were also taken to hospital with serious injuries, police said.
A number of weapons were seized at the time and several arrests were made shortly afterwards.
Detective Superintendent Ceri Hughes, from South Wales Police, said: “This recent enforcement follows a complex six-month investigation by a team of South Wales Police detectives and has involved the assistance of many other police forces.
“In March we made a commitment to identify those responsible for this large-scale disorder and I’m pleased to say that, with the support of other police forces, a significant number of people have been arrested.
“We believe that those arrested were involved in the serious disorder at Shirenewton gypsy and traveller site on March 21 this year.
“As always, South Wales Police strives to protect all communities from serious harm. Anyone who thinks they can commit such violence in the South Wales Police area should think again. It will not be tolerated and we hope this multi-force operation makes that message very clear.
“We again thank local communities for their patience, understanding, and co-operation while arrests and searches were carried out.”
Witnesses or anyone with information, including video and dashcam footage relating to the incident, are asked to contact South Wales Police quoting reference number *098726.