Appeal over suspected arson attack

POLICE are appealing for the local community to come forward with information after a suspected arson attack at a home in Swansea while a family were asleep inside.

Officers have said that CCTV footage of the incident shows a man approaching a property in Carmel Road, Winch Wen, shortly before 12.30am on May 19, carrying items in both his hands, before leaving two minutes later in the direction of Jersey Road.

Smoke can be seen coming from the address shortly afterwards.

The man appears to be wearing grey jogging bottoms and a dark hooded top, and officers would like to hear from anyone who may have found discarded clothing matching the description.

They’d also like to hear from anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the incident.

The homeowner woke to find the front door to her home had been damaged by fire.

Detective Inspector Dave Peart said: “Thankfully, incidents such as this one are rare, but this was nonetheless a very frightening experience for the residents of that property, who know that the consequences could have proved tragic had the fire taken hold.

“I’d appeal to anyone who thinks they have any information which could assist this investigation to come forward as a matter of urgency, as the perpetrator is clearly an individual who has a complete disregard for others’ lives.”

■ Anyone with information should contact 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, quoting occurrence 1800177781.