Police officer is injured by stone

A POLICE officer has been injured after a stone was thrown during an emergency call out.

Officers from Gwent Police and fire crews from South Wales Fire and Rescue were responding to incidents around Rhymney and Phillipstown, where a fire engine was also damaged.

It is believed that as emergency services arrived on the scene of these incidents youths from the areas threw debris and stones at police officers and fire crews.

The incidents, which happened on Friday and Saturday involved arson, criminal damage and hate crime.

An increased police presence will remain in place in the area and now, Inspector Andy O’Keefe of Gwent Police has issued a warning to those involved.

He said: “During our response, debris and stones were hurled at both Gwent officers and the South Wales Fire Service Crew

– by who we believe were youths from the area.

“This sort of behaviour illustrates complete disrespect for the people who work around the clock, often putting their own lives at risk, to keep us safe in our communities.

“This is disappointing to say the least. These sorts of incidents can intimidate the most vulnerable members of our communities and it is our job to respond to these incidents. Some of the offences included arson, shouting racial abuse and criminal damage.”