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First Closure Order for Merthyr Tydfil

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A NUISANCE neighbour has been banned from her home following the very first Closure Order to be granted in Merthyr Tydfil.
South Wales Police, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and Hafod Housing joined forces to secure the order and ‘close down’ the property in Treharris
They stepped into action following reports from nearby residents about the constant, unacceptable behaviour from the tenant of, and visitors to, to 95 Fir Tree Drive.
On Thursday,July 29 Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court was presented with a catalogue of complaints in relation to persistent anti-social behaviour associated with the premises dating back to December 2009.
On being presented with the evidence, the court awarded the Closure Order.
Complaints included:

The premises being used as a drinking den
Empty drink cans bottles, glasses, smashed glass and cigarette ends being strewn outside
Spit and vomit fouling the outside of the premises.
Shouting, swearing, arguing, fighting and drunkenness at all hours of the day and night.
Intimidating behaviour of visitors banging and kicking doors and windows of the address demanding entry.
Loud music being played at all times of the day and night.
Regular and persistent rowdy parties attended by numerous intoxicated young people.

Sergeant Joanne Jones, from the Treharris Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The behaviour of the occupier and her visitors greatly impacted on the lives of people in Fir Tree Drive, who had to put up with noise, rubbish, fighting and extreme persistent anti-social behaviour.
“The Closure Order shows that communities should not and will not be expected to tolerate such behaviour, whether the home is rented or privately owned, and we at South Wales Police will do all we can to improve their quality of life.
“I hope this will make residents feel safer in their own community and give them some peace.”
"I would like to thank those living in Fir Tree Drive for their support and understanding while this action was being taken.”

The order, secured under the 2003 Anti Social Behaviour Act, means the tenants are evicted from the property and the building will remain boarded up. Any attempts to enter the building could lead to arrest and prosecution.
It is the first such order of its kind secured by the Merthyr Tydfil Community Safety Partnership
The Community Safety Partnership is the organisation that coordinates and drives the efforts of all agencies that have a statutory duty to respond to crime and disorder, including the local authority, South Wales Police, health and the voluntary sector.

Councillor Jeff Edwards, The Leader of Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and Chair of the Community Safety Partnership commented: "With the support of South Wales Police, this is the first application made by Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council for a closure order.
“When severe nuisance and anti-social behaviour occur in residential areas, it undermines people’s sense of personal safety right at the point where it matters most – in and around their homes.
“In Fir Tree Drive, this particular premises was a constant focus for severe anti-social behaviour, making the lives of those living nearby a misery.
“No one should have to put up with this. And no one should think that they can get away with it either!"

Alan Morgan, Managing Director of Hafod Housing Association said: "We are very pleased with the outcome of this case which demonstrates the strength of the partnership working between Hafod, the police, and other agencies in tackling anti social behaviour.
“All involved have collectively spent months trying to obtain a resolution that would have avoided the need for the Closure Order – regrettably, this could not be achieved.
“Anti social behaviour is committed by a minority but it can have a huge impact on the lives of the many who want no more than to enjoy peace in their own homes. Our staff are dedicated to working with our tenants and all Community Agencies to ensure that this can be achieved."

Youngsters Transform Underpass

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A problem underpass in Ynysawdre which has been blighted by graffiti for years has been transformed by local youngsters into a blaze of colourful pictures.

In a partnership approach involving the local Neighbourhood Police Team, the moving forward project, youth service and community volunteers teams of youngsters have painted a summer scene of hills, trees, butterflies and flowers in the pedestrian tunnel that runs between Heol yr Ysgol and Bryn Road in Ynysawdre.

Called Operation Gomez, the initiative was devised to remove the unsightly graffiti that has been created upon the tunnel and paint over it with summer theme.

PCSOs Janine Ireland and Chris Bowen teamed up with Youth Project Worker Georgina Bunch to secure the support of local stores including B&Q and Homebase which supplied paint and materials to give the tunnel the facelift.

PCSO Ireland said: “The tunnel has been dogged by graffiti over many years and after moved to the Ynysawdre ward a few weeks ago I had a chance meeting with Georgina Bunch from the Moving Forward Project at Ynysawdre school youth club.

“We spoke about the tunnel on Bryn Road and the problem of graffiti. Paint had been donated to Ynysawdre youth club for community projects by B&Q and we contacted Homebase in Bridgend who donated painting equipment.

“We also had to obtain the support of the Community Council which gave us more brushes and marker pens as well as permission to paint the tunnel.

“Much of the hard work and enthusiasm has come from Georgina Bunch and the young parents who attend the Moving Forward Project. During the course of painting the subway we invited many members of the community to add their hand prints to the tunnel as they passed through. Ynysawdre's BCBC youth summer scheme also brought youths to add their hand prints to the tunnel and local PC Mathew Tatchell popped by to paint on a bumble bee.

“It has been amazing working on this multi agency approach and each person who walked through the tunnel told us of their appreciation of the art on the walls and how it has brightened the passage. The council have also installed lighting at the tunnel this week.”

Community dog show at Grange Gardens this Saturday

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff Bay neighbourhood policing team are organising a community dog show at Grange Gardens this Saturday.

The event has been organised to promote community cohesion after tensions between dog walkers and other members of the community using the park.

The dog show takes place between midday and 4pm on Saturday 31st July and will award prizes for ‘dog with the waggiest tail’ ‘dog that looks most like it’s owner and ‘’best behaved dog’ amongst other categories.

PCSO Candice Bees said, “The event is all about promoting responsible dog ownership and showing how dogs can help people and be great companions.”

South Wales Police dogs will also be at the event.

Other activities include refreshments, raffle prizes and entertainment.

Olympics and Paralympics 2012 - Two Years To Go!

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

July 27th 2010 and it's official - the UK is exactly 2 years away from going for Gold and hosting the biggest sporting event on the planet!

With the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games now just two years away, planning to ensure a safe and secure Games is well underway and progressing well.

South Wales Police is one of only eleven UK police forces hosting an Olympic venue, namely the Millennium Stadium, which will hold a number of football games for the Olympic Football Tournament during the Games.

Assistant Chief Constable of Specialist Crime, Mr Matt Jukes, and Superintendent Steve Furnham, who is heading up planning for the Games in-force, last week attended Exercise ‘Citius Torch’, the first of a series of planned national Olympic security exercises.

Held in Central London and opened by Seb Coe, Chairman of the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG), over 200 police and emergency personnel attended the two-day table-top exercise, which presented a series of developing scenarios – from the combined effects of a heat wave and traffic problems through to a terrorist attack.

These fictional scenarios allowed the police service and partner agencies to test the new national coordination and communication systems required for 2012, as well as developing an understanding of the command chain and examining the required links between the new National Olympic Coordination Centre (NOCC) for safety and security, government, LOCOG and other key elements such as transport and intelligence.

Superintendent Steve Furnham, who is heading up planning for the Games in force said:

“Exercise ‘Citius Torch’ was the first of many upcoming security practise events, and allowed us to better understand how we will link up with our partner agencies come Games-time to effectively deliver safe and secure celebrations throughout the summer of 2012.

"We have a wealth of experience in policing major events, and contributing towards the policing of the legendary Olympic and Paralympic games will be another opportunity for us to show our professionalism as a police service.

"Our aim is to be visible, supportive and reassuring, so that the 2012 summer of celebration can remain focused on the enjoyment of sport and not the security operation.

"We're looking forward to working with our partners so that all the athletes involved can enjoy what will be the pinnacle of their sporting careers, and so our communities can enjoy the spirit of the Games.

"Planning for the Games is in the early stages in South Wales, but participating in national exercises such as ‘Citius Torch’ with our partners is helping us to ensure we are going in the right direction. Being a hosting venue for the Games is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and we're really excited to be a part of it."

ENDS

Missing person appeal from Neath in 2002

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Robert was aged 15 when he was reported missing from his home in Resolven, Neath.

Despite extensive enquiries and numerous appeals for information over the past eight years, police have been unable to locate him.

Following a review of outstanding missing persons in the force area, a team of detectives are now conducting enquiries into the case.

As part of the investigation, police have released an age progression photograph to depict what Robert Williams would look like today.

Detective Inspector Mark Lewis, of the South Wales Police Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “All outstanding missing person cases remain open and are revisited periodically in case new evidence comes to light.

“I have a team of officers investigating the disappearance of Robert Williams who went missing from his home in Resolven almost eight years ago. As part of that process we will assess, re-visit and evaluate all information gathered up until now as well as identifying any potential new lines of enquiry. I will remain determined to seek an outcome for Robert ’s mother, family and friends.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have information about his disappearance to come forward and contact the police.

“His mother, Cheryl Davies, is still deeply anxious to find her son. I would urge anyone with information to contact us.”

Contact the South Wales Police Incident Room on 01639 889103 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Tragic Death of Joanna Michael - IPCC Response

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Joint statement from Deputy Chief Constable of Gwent Police Mrs Carmel Napier and Assistant Chief Constable of South Wales Police Mr Nick Croft:

"Uppermost in all our minds today is Joanna Michael. As the first anniversary of Joanna's death approaches, our thoughts are with her children, her wider family and all her friends as they continue to rebuild their lives as best they can following her tragic murder by Cyron Williams.

"Gwent Police and South Wales Police are working closely together to address the issues set out in the IPCC's report. We fully acknowledge the findings of the IPCC investigation and both forces have been working hard to implement the recommendations identified.

"Disciplinary proceedings are ongoing in both forces into the conduct of two call handlers, and, as this process remains live, we aren't able to go into further detail at the present time.

"We both acknowledge fully that the service given to Joanna Michael in the early hours on August 5th 2009 was not reflective of the usual high standards our communities should expect."

Statement from Deputy Chief Constable of Gwent Police Carmel Napier:

"Firstly on behalf of Gwent Police I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences to Joanna's family and friends. Joanna's death at the hands of Cyron Williams was a tragedy.

"The IPCC Commissioner's report makes it clear that on the night of Joanna's death she was let down by the Police, she did not receive the service she should have done.

"It's our job to protect and help vulnerable members of the public and we are sorry that we failed to do that for Joanna. There are no excuses

- we simply did not respond as we should have.

"I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to Joanna’s family and am willing to meet with the family at any time to make this apology personally.

"We fully accept the findings of the IPCC in regards to our call handling and I would like to reassure the public that an action plan based on those findings has been implemented.

"Changes we have introduced include appointing a dedicated Force Communication Suite Trainer. The trainer has responsibility for undertaking training needs analysis for all staff to identify any specialist training that call handlers may require and ensuring that the training is completed.

"The Force has also introduced an aid memoire for all call handlers which is based on the National Police Improvement Agency (NPIA) document "Guidance on Investigating Domestic Violence". This gives quick and easy access to simple reminders of the information call handlers should obtain and record when dealing with a call relating to domestic violence.

"In order to measure the quality of how domestic violence calls are handled supervisors now ensure that dip sampled quality assurance checks are completed in accordance with the recommendations of the National Contact Management Principles and Guidance and are structured against the National Call Handling Standards.

"In practical terms this means that 50% of all domestic violence related 999 calls, and 25% of all non-emergency domestic violence related calls are now required to have quality assurance checks conducted. These checks will make sure that call handlers are complying with policy, and that the correct grading is being applied to calls.

"In regards to working more closely with South Wales Police an incident exchange system is now operational between South Wales and Gwent which is proving beneficial in terms of efficiency and effectiveness in the management of incidents.

''The people who call the Police have the right to demand the highest possible standards from our staff and people can be confident that we are working as hard as we can to help ensure that a tragedy like this does not happen again. "

ENDS

Statement from Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft of South Wales Police:

"South Wales Police's Major Crime unit carried out a thorough investigation which resulted in the conviction of Cyron Williams for Joanna's murder and resulted in a life sentence being imposed with a minimum tariff of 20 years.

"I acknowledge fully, that for Joanna's family, this conviction, whilst bringing some comfort, will never bring Joanna back and she has left two young children who are now growing up without their mother.

"Turning now to the findings of the Independent Police Complaints

Commission's report, I regret very much the way South Wales Police dealt with the call and information that was passed on by Gwent Police. I agree with the Commissioner that the lessons learned obtained during the investigation and his recommendations should be shared. South Wales Police has fully accepted the recommendations and has acted upon them.

"The IPCC report deals with the actions taken by the individual call handlers on the night in question in managing this rapidly unfolding incident.

"Clearly, Joanna's calls to the police did not result in her getting the required response and our service that night fell below the standards I would expect from my staff. I know that all South Wales Police officers and staff will share my feelings in this regard.

"Information to carry out a full risk assessment should have been taken by the South Wales Police call handler, and the call should have been graded as an immediate response.

"I would like to reassure the public that several key changes have been made in the way we handle emergency calls. Every day, South Wales Police responds to around 1,500 incidents and our control room staff are required to continually apply their judgement and response guidelines to many complex and often confusing scenarios. This does not, however, excuse the fact that we did not respond as we should have done.

"The force has produced an action plan which directly addresses how we can avoid such an incident from happening again.

"We have put rigorous processes in place to iron out issues with misrouted emergency calls, carried out work to improve communication and administrative processes and have provided further training for our control room staff in domestic abuse. The Force has also contributed additional information to local and national domestic abuse policy.

"I would ask the people of South Wales to accept my reassurance that the less than effective response to this incident is not typical of and does not reflect the high standards and overall quality of service to which South Wales Police consistently aspires. The subsequent criminal investigation conducted by my officers demonstrated the professionalism and effectiveness of my staff and resulted in the conviction and imprisonment of Cyron Williams."

ENDS

Farm Watch Launched in The Ogmore Valley

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in The Ogmore Valley are forging closer links with their rural communities.

Neighbourhood Officers have launched a Farm Watch - a partnership lead initiative - which will foster improved relations between the police and agricultural landowners and farmers to fight rural crime throughout the Ogmore Valley.

Farm Watch is aimed at improving the service provided to people living in rural communities and enhance the flow of information about crime and anti-social behaviour to the police.

Local Beat Manager PC Gemma Tibbott said: “We have been looking at ways of improving our engagement with rural communities in the Ogmore Valley.

“The key aim of Farm Watch is to stress the importance of vigilance and communication within rural and farming communities. We have developed this concept and I believe it will be of great benefit to both ourselves and our rural communities.

“The aims of Farm Watch are to reduce opportunities for crime to occur in farming and rural communities; strengthen community spirit, so that everyone works together to protect their property; improve communication between the farming community and the police; encourage people to report suspicious incidents as they occur and enhance information and intelligence sharing between partners.

“The services offered through Farm Watch include practical crime prevention advice to farmers and landowners, to help ensure their property and goods are as secure as possible. A property marking scheme to make it harder for thieves to dispose of stolen goods. A text alert service called ‘ringmaster’ and partnership working between the police, local farmers, the fire service, Forestry Commission, local scrap dealers and local council and environmental services.

Ogmore Valley Neighbourhood Police Community Support Officer Gemma Matthews added: “Farm Watch aims to minimise the opportunities for crime to occur in farming and rural communities. Paramount to this is encouraging people to report suspicious incidents to the police as they occur and sharing information with other Farm Watch members. The scheme not only assists in deterring crime but strengthens community spirit as together everyone achieves more.

“We encourage farmers or any members of the rural community living in the Ogmore Valley who feel they may benefit to attend the next Farm Watch meeting.”

The next Farm Watch Meeting will be held at the Ogmore Valley Life Centre, Aber Road, Ogmore Vale at 8pm on Wednesday 4^th August 2010.

For further details about the Farm Watch Scheme please visit http://www.ourbobby.com or telephone your local neighbourhood officer.

Vale Police & Gifts for Troops

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

For several months police officers and staff from Barry police station and staff from Cardiff Airport have been collecting non perishable foods, items of clothing and small gifts for distribution to soldiers serving in Afghanistan.

Such as been the success of the initiative a second bundle of parcels is now heading its way to Kabul and onward to the British military bases in Afghanistan. Barry Neighbourhood Police Constable Gareth Holmes originally started the collection among his colleagues in Barry police station to put together small parcels of useful gifts to send out to troops serving in Afghanistan.

At the same time, Lisa Morgan and her colleague Marion Williams, who both work at Cardiff Airport, decided to join in with the initiative and start a collection among their fellow members of staff.

This week the second delivery of shoe-box sized parcels was despatched to troops serving on the front line. More than 120 parcels have now been sent to forces serving in Afghanistan.

PC Holmes said: “I have been overwhelmed by the support we have received for this both here in Barry police station as well as at the Airport. We have taken advice on the type of things that most of the troops appreciate and what is possible to send out to them.

“These range from pot noodles to socks and books to playing cards. We have already been able to fill more than 120 boxes which will be very welcome by the troops in Afghanistan.

“I would like to thank a number of local businesses including Shoe Zone on Holton Road and Park Crescent Post office for their valuable support as well as everyone at Barry police station and at the Airport including Nuance and the air traffic controllers at NATS who have supported us so far and we are already collecting for our next delivery.”

Keep Your Gardens Safe

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Barry are warning householders to take extra security precautions following a spate of thefts flower baskets from gardens on Barry Island.

Neighbourhood Inspector Louise Davies said: “Garden features such as flower tubs and hanging baskets as well as ornaments such as gnomes, water fountains and other items often provide an easy target for thieves because they have little or no attention given to them to ensure they are made secure.

“Residents must be aware that there are thieves operating in the area who are on the lookout for these kinds of valuables. The advice to householders is to think about how secure their garden ornaments are.

“While there has been a recent spate of thefts from gardens on Barry Island I would ask all residents to consider the following points.

“Are your fences and gates in good repair? Do you have security lighting? Do you leave things outside all year round such as garden ornaments, furniture or even tools which could be removed easily or used to break into your house?

“If this is the case, secure them in position or fill them with heavy gravel to prevent easy carrying. Low energy dusk to dawn lighting is environmentally friendly and cheap to run.

“Cut back any over grown areas to remove hiding places so you can see what's going on. Gravel on paths and driveways can alert you to someone approaching so intruders will not be so keen. Prickly plants and trellis can also provide extra protection from an intruder.

“When you’ve made your garden more secure, remember to lock things away every time. It only takes a minute to pick something up and walk off, so don’t be tempted to leave everything out while you’re inside.”

Local Bobbies at Cogan Fete

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Pupils, staff and parents all took the opportunity to get to meet their local ‘Bobby’ at the Cogan School Fete which took place earlier this month.

Police Constable Emma Fitzgerald and PCSO Surinder Singh Taak were on hand to meet everyone and chat about their work in the community.

As part of the fun for the children they held a special ‘Who's your Bobby’ competition, to see how many children knew who their local officer was.

The winner was presented with a special bag of goodies kindly donated by local store, Dragon Discounts, and the seven runners up received ‘bobby hats’. As an added treat the children had a chance to sit in a police car and see how the lights and siren operates.

Alcohol confiscated in anti-social behaviour blitz

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

BOTTLES of vodka and crates of lager were some of the items seized from underage teenagers during a blitz on anti-social behaviour in Pontyclun.

Neighbourhood and response officers teamed up to tackle the issue of youth annoyance in the area which has been identified as a Pact priority by residents.

PC Mike Perry Neighbourhood Beat Manager for Talbot Green, Pontyclun, Llantrisant, is now urging parents to get on board and check where their children are at night. Some of the young people spoken to by police claimed they were going camping for the night.

“All the alcohol you can see in the photograph was seized in just one Friday night in Pontyclun from underage drinkers who we found out on the streets up until 2am.

“Some of the young peo ple admitted that the alcohol had actually been supplied by their parents.

“Apart from being underage, the consumption of alcohol is making these young people vulnerable to harm and also causing great distress to residents.

“For these reasons we need the help of parents to help us tackle this problem and we urge them to ask themselves where their children are in the evening? Who are they with? What are they doing? Are they part of the problem? ”

If young people are found with alcohol it will be confiscated and parents contacted. Those who are particularly young or intoxicated will be taken home.

Officers are also considering submitting Anti Social Behaviour Referral forms for parents whose children are persistently found to be causing problems.

Inspector Lee Porter added: “I would ask parents to consider how they would feel if there were a large group of drunken youths outside their home. ”

For more information about the work of the Neighbourhood Policing Team in your area you can log on to www.ourbobby.com

Murder arrest after fire in Seven Road, Cardiff

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police investigating the circumstances surrounding a fire at Severn Road, Cardiff have arrested two people

A 36 year old man and a 31 year old woman have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of Yaseen Ali, aged 7 years. They are currently being detained at a Cardiff police station.

Yaseen’s body was discovered after a fire at his home in Severn Road, Cardiff on Monday 12th July 2010.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 029 20 222 111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

212 arrests made during Operation 14000

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Targeted raids and patrols have been conducted across South Wales this week, resulting in 212 arrests, as part of Operation 14,000.

Local neighbourhood officers have been supported by resources from across the force area, to disrupt criminal activity and take those persons responsible off the streets.

Arrests have been made for offences including violent crime, vehicle crime, dwelling burglary, and robbery. Roads Policing recovered a stolen vehicle worth in excess of £30,000, and an Automatic Number Plate Recognition patrol help catch a wanted person for fraud offences, whilst officers from Cardiff arrested a person wanted by INTERPOL for crimes across Europe.

The Operation was named 14,000, to reflect the crime performance results announced last week by the Home Office, with almost 14,000 less victims of crime in South Wales during 2009/10 compared to 2008/09.

Superintendent Julian Williams who led the force wide operation said “Crime in South Wales continues to decrease, with current crime levels at an unprecedented low. We are committed to keeping South Wales safe, and Operation 14000 has targeted our most wanted criminals.”

Superintendent Julian Williams continues “Officers throughout the force have conducted a number of intelligence led raids, and this has taken a number of criminals off the street. The high arrest total has been a result of the professional work of our officers, and the continued support and information received from our communities and partners. We will continue to work closely with our communities to help prevent and tackle crime.”

Operation 14,000 was conducted over 4 days from Monday 19th – Thursday 22nd July 2010, with a day of proactive activity in each of the 4 Basic Command Units that make up the South Wales Police force area.

The Operation 14,000 arrests made in each area were:

Bridgend and Vale of Glamorgan – 36 arrests
Swansea and Neath Port Talbot – 39 arrests
Cardiff – 62 arrests
Merthyr and Rhondda Cynon Taff – 75 arrests

Stolen lead returned to Valley’s church

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

LEAD stolen from a Cynon Valley church roof has been seized by South Wales Police and returned to the vicar.

Officers arrested two teenagers in Pontypridd after a member of public noticed a suspicious vehicle and alerted two PCSOs who were on patrol in nearby Ynysangharad Park.

Beware Of Fraudulant Callers, Police Warn

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Thursday 22 July 2010

South Wales Police is issuing a warning to residents following a fraudulent call to an elderly lady in Pontypridd, today.

A suspicious female purporting to work for TV Licensing, has phoned a 77-year-old lady living in Trehafod, Pontypridd and asked for her bank details.

At 77-years-old, she is entitled to a free licence and fortunately didn’t give her details to the phony caller.

A police spokeswoman said,

“Fraudsters are always looking for the next opportunity to develop a new scam for financial gain, but there are simple precautions that the public can take to safeguard themselves.

“This lady did the right thing by refusing to give her bank details to a stranger over the phone.

“Remember that if something seems too good to be true, then it probably is, so don’t be hasty about giving out your personal information. Most people wouldn’t give their personal details to a stranger, so treat phone calls, letters, emails and websites with the same caution.

“If you’re in doubt about the legitimacy of a company, carry out your own checks by contacting the company directly yourself. Legitimate callers won’t pressurise you to purchase goods or pay money upfront.

“If you’ve been targeted by a fraudster and lost money, contact Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.org.uk or call South Wales Police on 101 to report a non-emergency incident.”

Appeal - Man Wanted

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday 20 July 2010

South Wales Police is appealing for information regarding the whereabouts of Christopher Bell, who is wanted in connection with a number of robberies in the South Wales area.

Bell is described as white, 21-years-old, 6ft tall, with short ginger hair and of slim build.

Originally from Liverpool, he has a Liverpool accent, and it is believed he could have travelled across the country.

His last known vehicle was a black Honda Civic, vehicle registration: DF06 ELU.

Christopher Bell is also wanted by Merseyside Police for recall to prison.

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Christopher Bell, please phone or text the South Wales Police Major Crime mobile number on: 07970 587 395 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Garden theft warning for Taff residents

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

ORNAMENTAL lions, ceramic snails and wooden ducks are just some of the items that have been stolen from gardens in the Taff.

Police are issuing a warning to householders to ensure garden ornaments and furniture is secure after a number of thefts.

There have been a number of reported incidents of garden thefts since over the fine weather period across the area.

The majority of thefts have been in Brynna and Llanharan but the most recent was in Hollybush Villas, Church Village, where two 3ft tall stone lion ornaments were taken from a garden on Thursday, July 15.

More than 30 items, including 15 gnomes, were stolen from one garden in Meadow Rise, Brynna, and a variety of ornamental animals, including two green dragons, have been taken from a front garden in Bryn Henllan, Brynna.

Police are investigating the incidents and are carrying out extra patrols in the effected area but are also appealing for residents to be vigilant and to take simple crime prevention measures.

Sergeant Nick Jenkins, who is based in Pontypridd Police Station, said: “These items are stolen and either end up being sold on at car boot sales or kept by the thief.

“We would ask people to keep a watchful eye over their belongings and not leave them in a place where they could be stolen by an opportunist thief.

“Householders should seek to minimise opportunities for criminals by making sure garden items are secure or safely stored in sheds or outbuildings, especially overnight or when the property is unoccupied.

“I would ask also people to be good neighbours and report any suspicious vehicles or people in their street.”

Police are investigating whether there is a market for these items and would appeal to anyone who is offered these items for sale in pubs or clubs or in car boot sales to contact them.

Anyone with information regarding garden thefts should contact police in Pontypridd on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Eight tonne of metal seized by police in RCT

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

EIGHT tonnes of scrap metal including crushed beer kegs, a large amount of electrical cable and two drain covers have been seized by police in Rhondda Cynon Taff in an operation to target metal thefts.

The aluminium kegs, which are suspected of being stolen from the Mountain Ash area, were found in a Pontypridd scrap yard during the joint operation by South Wales Police and Rhondda Cynon Taff Council.

Each year around £25m worth of beer kegs are stolen in the UK which has an effect on the price of beer. An empty keg is worth around £75 and each has individual markings to identify where it has come from.

Operation Haribo targeted individuals and vehicles believed to be linked to theft of metals - including cars, lead from buildings and copper. Visits were then made to scrap dealers across RCT to ensure they complied with regulations

Following investigations at six scrap metal dealers, two men were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and are also being investigated for allegedly failing to keep proper records of whom they were purchasing scrap metal from.

As well as the beer kegs, the operation also led to the recovery of two RCT drain covers, a British Telecom lamppost, DVLA wheel clamps, and a large amount of National Grid and Network Rail cable.

Sergeant Nick Jenkins, who is based in Pontypridd and led the operation, said: "Metal is being stolen in various forms from high voltage copper cables, lead from schools and churches to manhole covers and railway signalling cable. "Metal thieves will literally steal anything in order to sell it on for cash."

Earlier this year aluminium liners were stolen from more than 40 gravestones at Ynsybwl Cemetery and on a separate occasion three men were arrested for stealing a council bin. Recently items such as radiators and washing lines have been going missing from gardens.

Sergeant Jenkins added: "Metal theft is not a victim-less crime. Metal is often stolen from community buildings, which costs taxpayers money to replace, and those responsible are often involved in other forms of criminality.
"We are continuing to make Rhondda Cynon Taff a difficult place for criminals and Operation Haribo sends a clear message out to anyone involved in the scrap metal industry that we are taking this sort of criminality extremely seriously."

Neath Open Day a big success

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Neath Port Talbot’s 3rd Annual Police Open Day was held at the weekend and was once again a great success.

Despite the unseasonal weather, around 2,000 visitors passed through the gates of Neath Police Station to get a glimpse of the work carried out by South Wales Police and its various partner agencies.

Local officers were on hand to show what happens to prisoners in custody and how crimes are solved using the latest forensic technology.

Police dogs and horses, traffic cars and armed response vehicle demonstrations once again proved a big attraction, while youngsters were given the chance to win tickets to win Swansea City football tickets in Neighbourhood Policing competition.

The fire service gave a display of the devastating effects of a chip pan fire and community safety partners highlighted the work being done to keep Neath Port Talbot safe.

Among the visitors were Neath MP and Shadow Welsh Secretary Peter Hain, South Wales Police Assistant Chief Constable Richard Lewis, Chief Superintendent Mark Mathias of Western BCU, Neath Port Talbot Council leader Ali Thomas and Police Authority member Eddie Jones.

Superintendent Joe Ruddy, operational commander for Neath Port Talbot Police, said: “It was an absolutely fantastic day which gave us and our partners the opportunity of showcasing the work being done on a daily basis to keep our communities safe.

“It was great to see members of the public engaging with my officers at such a fun event. I would like to thank everyone who attended and the planning team who made the event such a success.”

Open day at Neath Police Station

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Neath Police Station will open its doors to the public on Sunday 18th July for an open day being held in conjunction with G4S custody services.

Local officers will be on hand to show what happens to prisoners in custody and how crimes are solved using the latest forensic technology.

The ever-popular police horses from the force mounted section will be in attendance, as will traffic cars and off-road motorbikes.

Police dogs will display their crime-fighting talents, while youngsters will be given the chance to win prizes by solving a crime.

The fire service will be on hand with a display of the devastating effects of a chip pan fire and community safety partners will highlight the work being done to keep Neath Port Talbot safe.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams will challenge youngsters to find out more about their local officers by logging on the ourbobby.com website using the Rolling Zone interactive bus.

Inspector Jeff Handley, of Neath Port Talbot Police, said: “The event has been held for the past two years and has been a huge success and I would once again encourage people to come along and see what goes on at their local police station.

“Thankfully, most people only get to see the inside of a police station when they are involved in a crime but this event gives everyone an insight into just some of the most interesting aspects of local policing.

“There are loads of competitions, prizes and giveaways for youngsters and the grown-ups.”

There will be an opportunity for visitors to have a souvenir of their day by having their fingerprint and photograph printed on a special card.

Information will also be available on how to become a Special Constable or Neighbourhood Volunteer.

Admission to the open day is free and is being held at Neath Police Station in Gnoll Park Road, Neath, on Sunday 18th July from 10am until 4pm.

Vandals repair damage at Pontypridd nursery

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

VANDALISM at a Pontypridd children' centre has been dealt with by means of Restorative Justice.

Last November a group of young people caused criminal damage to the Rhydyfelin Children’s Centre in Holly Street, Rhydyfelin, by smashing windows and lights, removing a gas meter cover, and spraying graffiti.

Following a successful police investigation five local boys aged 9 to 13 were identified by CCTV and traced.

After admitting to what they had done, and at the request of the centre manager, a Restorative Justice meeting was held with the police, the centre, the boys and their parents. It was agreed that the boys would carry out work at the centre as recompense for their actions.

The boys have now completed a total of 30 hours work at the centre in their own time carrying out chores such as litter picking, general tidying of the play area, washing windows, cleaning play equipment, planting flowers and maintaining the garden area.

They were supervised by the prevention team Sarah Franklyn and Garreg Jenkins from the council’s Youth Prevention Team and a volunteer Michaela Williams who made sure that all the work was carried out properly and that the boys took their responsibilities seriously.

PCSO Lisa Banfield from the Rhydyfelin Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This is the first time restorative justice has been used to address criminal activity by young people in Rhydyfelin but in other areas it has been found to have a greater impact than putting offenders though the criminal justice system.

“The young people who committed the criminal damage had not been in trouble with the police previously and they have certainly learnt their lesson.

“Rather than receive punishment from the courts we felt restorative justice was a good way of preventing re-offending in the future and at the same time improve the quality of life for people living in the area.

“Restorative justice encourages young people to make the right choices in life and we will certainly be looking to go down this route in the future.”

Sarah Franklyn, Rhondda Cynon Taf’s Restorative Justice in Schools Senior Coordinator, added: “The aim of Restorative Justice is to bring together young people and the victims of their offences, who have the opportunity of deciding on the most appropriate response to a particular crime. It also brings about a positive solution to a crime and holds young offenders accountable for the consequences of their actions.”

Cllr Paul Cannon, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Safer Communities, said: “It is important for our communities to be reassured by the fact that we will always take the most appropriate action against those who have committed offences.

"In this case, we felt it was really important for the youths to understand the harm they had caused by their actions and we were able to successfully use Restorative Justice on this occasion, bringing home to them the consequences of the vandalism and, also, ensuring they complete reparations by completing unpaid work at the centre.”

Gayle Davies, manager of the centre, added: "This was the best course of action for all concerned and hopefully the youths will now have a sense of pride in this highly-valued community resource."

Goodbye to Pontypridd's longest serving officer

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is bidding farewell to its longest serving officer in Pontypridd.

Pc Kevin O’Mahony retires from the force today (Thursday, July 15) 35 years after joining the police service as a cadet.

He has carried out the vast majority of his long service in Pontypridd areas and today he retires as beat manager for the Rhondda ward where he has spent the last 14 years.

Pc O’Mahony is one of the few officers who can claim to have spent his entire career on the streets after beginning his service with the cadets in 1974 at the age of 17.

He joined the regulars the following year – the same year that comedian Charlie Chaplin was knighted, Muhammad Ali retained the world heavyweight boxing championship after defeating his arch-rival, Joe Frazier, in the so-called Thrilla in Manila, and the British Conservative Party chose Margaret Thatcher as its new leader.

When he started work at Pontypridd Police Station his colleagues working on the front counter were known as the 'war bobbies' having served during the Second World War.

“When I was a little boy all I wanted to be was a copper,” said Pc O’Mahony.

“One of the reasons I joined was because of an old bobby in Mountain Ash where I grew up. He was more than 6ft 1in tall, which you had to be in those days, and he knew everyone and everything. He was the man and I had so much respect for him.

“I still believe being a police officer is the best job in the world as you have the ability to make a difference to people’s lives.

“There is nothing better than being able to tell a victim of crime that someone has been arrested or being able to return stolen possessions.

“The organisation and my colleagues have looked after me my whole adult life for which I am extremely grateful. I shall miss working for South Wales Police and helping to take care of the community."

Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Kevin O’Neill said: “I have known Kevin for all my service which is over 30 years and he remains as enthusiastic and professional today as when he first joined.

“He is excellent role model to younger officers and I will be very sad to see him leave. I wish him all the very best for the future.”

Almost 14,000 less victims of crime in South Wales

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Crime figures for 2009/2010 released by the Home Office today, reveal that crime in the South Wales Police area has fallen by 11.8% compared to 2008/2009. This equates to 38 less victims of crime per day, on average and places the Force as the 8th most improved in Wales and England for reducing crime.

Figures released by the Home Office show that there were 13,816 fewer victims of crime, with notable reductions in key areas such as vehicle crime and burglary.

The biggest drop was in robbery, a 25.2% reduction with 204 fewer victims. There has been a 24% reduction in vehicle crime, with over 4,479 less victims.

There was also a significant reduction in the number of homes burgled, with 961 fewer break-ins, a reduction 16.1%.

Violence against the person fell by 6.7%, resulting in 1420 less victims that is 4 less victims of violent crime every day. There were 141 fewer sexual offences which places South Wales Police as the 2nd most improved force in Wales and England.

Criminal damage fell by 15.1%, resulting in 4043 less victims.

Assistant Chief Constable Richard Lewis said:

“These figures show our commitment to keeping our communities of South Wales safe by preventing and tackling crime. There has been nearly 14,000 less victims of crime and a reduction of 11.8% that puts South Wales Police as the 8th best performing force from the 43 throughout Wales and England.”

“Crime in South Wales is at an unprecedented low since the national recording standards were introduced in 2002, and the chances of becoming a victim of crime are actually lower now than they have been for the last 20 years.”

Whilst crime continues to fall, the likelihood of someone being caught for their crime continues to increase. South Wales Police's detection rate has improved by almost 50% since 2005/6.

Assistant Chief Constable Richard Lewis continues:

“Bringing offenders to justice is a key priority and there is a clear message from South Wales Police to those intent on committing crime that we will pursue you and bring you to justice”.

Other figures released by the Home Office as part of the British Crime Survey show that South Wales Police has made huge improvements, working in partnership with local authorities, in dealing with local issues, with a 10% increase in confidence levels over the last year to a level of 50%. This places South Wales Police as the best performing in Wales and the most improved force in Wales and England.

South Wales has also seen an almost 20% reduction in reported anti-social behaviour in the last year, which equates to 11 less reported incidents per day.

Knife related crime has also reduced by treble the national reduction rate.

Acting Chief Constable Colette Paul said:

“Our staff can be proud of these results which reflect their hard work. We are committed to being the best at understanding and responding to the needs of our communities, and will continue to work with both our partners and communities to reduce crime and tackle anti-social behaviour. We will certainly not be complacent in our commitment to driving down all types of crime.”

Recorded Crime Figures Summary (and South Wales ranking in brackets amongst 43 other forces)

Recorded crime down 11.8% (equal 8th best reduction)
Violence against person down 6.7% (equal 12th best reduction)
Sexual offences down 14.1% (equal 2nd best reduction)
Robbery down 25.2% (equal 4th best reduction)
Dwelling burglary down 16.1% (equal 7th best reduction)
Vehicle crime down 24% (equal 6th best reduction)
Criminal damage down 15.1% (equal 19th best reduction)

Police museum proves popular at Cynon open day

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THE South Wales Police museum proved a popular attraction when the Cynon Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team attended a recent council open day to engage with their local community.

PCSOs Sam Llewellyn- Jones, Bleddyn Jones, and Bernie Mahoney, had a stall at the event in Michael Sobell Sports Centre, Aberdare, packed with crime prevention advice, items from the force museum, and fingerprint kits for children.

PCSO Bleddyn Jones, community officer for Cwmbach, said: "The museum items were particularly popular with visitors who were able to see how police equipment and uniform has changed over the years.

"These items attracted people to our stall and we were then able to provide them with crime prevention advice and chat about any issues they had about policing in their local community.

"This was an ideal opportunity to meet the people we serve on a daily basis and we are grateful for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council for giving us this opportunity."

To find contact details of your local officers and learn more about police action in your area log onto www.ourbobby.com

Drugs arrest in Merthyr Tydfil

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Merthyr Tydfil have recovered a quantity of drugs following a search of a house.

A search warrant was carried out at the property in Heol Twyn Ddu where a number of plastic bags containing white powder were found.

Officers described this as a substantial amount of what is believed to be amphetamine sulphate.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of amphetamine with intent to supply and has been bailed pending further enquiries including analysis of the white powder.

Police community support officers then informed local residents of the arrest by way of a leaflet drop the following day reassuring them that positive action is being taken to combat drugs and drug dealing in their community.

Sergeant Dean Gittoes said: "Drug dealing is a concern to the community therefore tackling this illegal activity is a priority for us and we will always act upon information received."

Anyone with information on drug dealing can contact South Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Mountain Ash paperboy assault: Witness Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is appealing for information on an attempt robbery of a teenage boy in Mountain Ash.

The 13-year-old was delivering papers in the Triangle area of Caegarw at around 6am on Friday, July 2 when he was punched by an older teenager who demanded money.

The victim managed to break free and run from the lane towards Aberffrwd Road. Nothing was stolen and the boy fortunately did not require any medical attention.

Officers are continuing to investigate this incident and are appealing for assistance from the community to identify the person responsible.

The suspect is described as white, around 17 years old, 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, and was wearing black tracksuit bottoms, white trainers, and a distinctive yellow hooded top with the Henley logo written in blue.

Anyone with information is asked to contact at Aberdare CID on 01685 724284 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Bogus Scrap Metal Dealers Targeted

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police and Trading Standards throughout Wales joined forces to target doorstep criminals and raise awareness of doorstep crime in the fourth annual Operation Rogue Traders Week.

In a day long multi-agency operation in Barry on Wednesday (30 June) involving VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency), HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs), Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Licensing and Enforcement team and Trading Standards, EAW (Environment Agency Wales) DWP (Department of Work and Pensions and South Wales Police officers from Barry NST and the Roads Policing unit.

As a result of the operation 18 prohibition orders were issued which denied further use of the vehicle until immediate work was carried out to rectify defects; a £500 spot fine for using red diesel on a public road thereby evading duty; nine waste carrier licences were checked resulting in three waste document requirement notices – failure or discrepancies can result in a £300 fine.

EAW and Trading Standards also have several follow up enquiries that can result in a prosecution. Eight Vehicle defect rectification notices and two summonses were also issued.

Acting Sergeant Stuart Wong led the operation. He said: “The main purpose of the day was to help combat metal theft by targeting those capable of carrying stolen metal and those capable of storing stolen metal by denying them the use of the road network to carry out offences.

“Specific areas were targeted including Barry Docks and the Atlantic Trading Estate. DWP will also be notified of those working on scrap collection vehicles and sites to be checked against benefit claims.

“This was a great example of partnership work and everyone involved was very please with the day’s results.”

Local officer wins national police bravery award

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A brave Cardiff officer who saved a tragic woman from suicide attempt has won a national police bravery award.

Out on routine patrol in an unmarked police car, PC Elizabeth Window spotted a woman poised to jump off Clarence Bridge. The woman had been reported missing from the local hospital where she was receiving grievance care after losing her partner in a suicide jump off the very same bridge a year earlier.

PC Window stopped the car and proceeded cautiously towards the woman, whom she heard muttering that she was going to jump. Just as she was about to release herself, PC Window grabbed hold of her hands but her feet left the ledge. For some time PC Window bore the wrestling weight of the woman until a taxi driver came to her assistance. Between them they pulled the woman to safety and waited for the other rescue services to arrive.

Without the actions and bravery of PC Window the woman would most certainly have succeeded in killing herself.

PC Window won the Bravery Award for the Wales Region

Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby, divisional commander for Cardiff said, " I would like to add my personal congratulations to PC Window for winning this high profile national award. It is due recognition for her brave actions in saving the woman in question. Both Elizabeth and her colleagues in Cardiff provide a dedicated and professional service to the communities of Cardiff on a daily basis, often putting themselves in the path of danger to help others. Their work and dedication mean that the communities of Cardiff are safer than ever before and crime is at an unprecedented low in the city. "

Secretary of South Wales Police Federation Richie Jones said ‘The actions of PC Window highlight the dangers that police officers face each day. There is no doubt that PC Window put the safety and welfare of this lady before her own and her actions undoubtedly saved the life of this lady. PC Window is a credit to South Wales Police and to the police service in general, her professionalism and courage are to be commended and she is thoroughly deserving of her award.’

The Police Bravery Awards, hosted in partnership with The Sun newspaper, is an annual event which honours Police Officers across England and Wales for their actions to tackle criminals and keep the public safe. This year marks the 15th anniversary for the Police Bravery Awards.

Rogue traders sent to jail

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Two men have been sent to jail for fraud offences after they overcharged a 90-year-old Neath woman for gardening work.

Alf Peter Marshall Probert, aged 19, and Jamie Lee Smith, aged 20, both of the Ebbw Vale area, were convicted at Neath Magistrates Court and received 112-day custodial sentences.

They were tracked down and arrested following a police investigation led by PC Martin Jenkins of the Glynneath Neighbourhood Policing Team after charging the vulnerable victim £1,400 to have a lawn and hedge cut at her home in the Neath Valley last August.

PC Jenkins said: “These individuals travelled from Ebbw Vale and targeted their elderly victim and confused her into believing that she had asked them to carry out this gardening work for the price of £1,400.

“I was struck by the callous nature of this crime as the victim had been conned out of this money in her own home.”

The Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership has been working in recent weeks to prevent this type of offence by visiting more than 400 homes of vulnerable people to issue rogue trader prevention advice.

Rogue traders use unscrupulous tactics and target residents, particularly the elderly or vulnerable, and deliberately overcharge for unsatisfactory services. They are often linked to distraction burglaries.

This can include charging for unnecessary work, damaging property deliberately in order to obtain money to repair it, leaving work unfinished or even intimidating residents in order to extort money.

Inspector Mark Lenihan of the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership added: “There have been some disturbing incidents where people have been conned out of lots of money after being intimidated by rogue traders.

“Our recent work was designed to raise awareness of this issue and to ask people to be vigilant and look out for their elderly friends or relatives.

“The conviction and imprisonment of the rogue traders in the Glynneath area sends out a clear message that this type of crime will not be tolerated and perpetrators will be tracked down and brought to justice.”

Rogue traders charged with fraud offences

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 9 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Neath Port Talbot have charged two men with fraud offences for allegedly overcharging an elderly woman for gardening work.

The two men, aged 19 and 20, are accused of charging a 90-year-old woman £1,400 for having a lawn and hedge cut at her Glynneath home.

They will appear before Neath Magistrates Court on Friday 9th July at 10am.

The men were charged during a week of action by police and trading standards which saw officers stop and check traders and offer crime prevention advice to residents.

Agencies such as Age Concern and Victim Support also joined the operation to spread the word to vulnerable and elderly people.

Inspector Mark Lenihan of the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership, said: “Our aims were to target and disrupt rogue traders and to gather intelligence on individuals suspected of being involved in this type of criminality.

“We also focused on raising awareness on rogue traders and distraction burglars in our communities which saw more than 400 households visited and the occupants provided with relevant crime prevention advice.

“More than 45 referrals were made for homes to have their security upgraded which will substantially reduce the risk of the homeowner becoming a victim.”

Automatic Number Plate recognition (ANPR) technology was also used to target suspect vehicles, resulting in four people being arrested and seven vehicles seized.

Among the arrests were a 39-year-old man who was found in possession in counterfeit DVDs and tobacco and a man suspected of fraud offences.

This can include charging for unnecessary work, damaging property deliberately in order to obtain money to repair it, leaving work unfinished or even intimidating residents in order to extort money.

Steve Adie, principal officer for trading standards at Neath Port Talbot Council, said: “The Glamorgan Group of Trading Standards authorities (Neath Port Talbot, Swansea, Bridgend, Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan, Merthyr, Rhondda Cynon Taff) have recently established a Trustmark approved trader scheme so that consumers can choose accredited, vetted traders as opposed to becoming the victims of rogue traders.”

Inspector Lenihan added: “There have been some disturbing incidents where people have been conned out of lots of money after being intimidated by rogue traders.

“Our work was designed to raise awareness of this issue and to ask people to be vigilant and look out for their elderly friends or relatives.”

Diesel thefts operation in Neath Port Talbot

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 9 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Neath Port Talbot have conducted an operation aimed at cracking down on diesel theft.

Officers from the Neath and Skewen Neighbourhood Policing Teams assisted by colleagues from the South Wales Police roads policing unit and H M Revenue & Customs carried out an operation in the Briton Ferry and Skewen areas targeting the illegal use of red diesel in road vehicles.

During the operation in excess of 30 vehicles were stopped and a sample of the fuel from each of these vehicles was removed and examined.

Three vehicles were seized from drivers for offences of no driving licence or no insurance.

One vehicle stopped was found to be illegally using red diesel, the driver was dealt with for this offence by specialist officers from the H M Revenue & Customs.

Four drivers were reported to the DVLA for road tax offences.

PC Rhodri Gough, Neighbourhood Officer for Briton Ferry, said: “Many people consider the use of red diesel in road vehicles to be a victimless crime.

“This is not the case as in my experience much of the red diesel used illegally in road vehicles is stolen. Those choosing to use it are supporting criminal gangs and causing financial hardship to legitimate businesses in what is already a very difficult economic climate.

“People who choose to use this fuel illegally should be warned that random stop checks will continue and your vehicle will be seized. The on the spot fine for a first offence of this type is £500.”

Neath Neighbourhood Sergeant Geraldine Lewis added: “We carry out these operations regularly in partnership with other agencies. I would encourage people to contact their local officers or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 if they have any information regarding the illegal sale or use of red diesel in our communities.”

* Police have charged two men, aged 27 and 29, with offences of going equipped for theft as part of an ongoing operation to tackle diesel thefts from lorries parked up in lay-bys along the A465. The men were arrested during a pro-active operation on Wednesday 7th July. They will appear at Port Talbot Magistrates Court on 13th July 2010.

Seizure of false identies, Swansea

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 9 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Scheme to check on false identification in city centre licensed premises heralded as a success

A scheme to check on identification produced by young persons attempting to gain access to licensed premises in Swansea City Centre has resulted in 835 driving licenses, passports or other identification documents being seized over a twelve month period since July 2009.

The scheme, contributed to by Safer Swansea Partnership, South Wales Police, City Centre Licensed Premises and door staff at those premises has resulted in the exclusion of young people under the age of 18 and has been greeted as a step towards the safeguarding of youngsters.

Inspector Bill John, of Swansea Central Police Station praised the contribution of the work of door staff at city centre premises, saying, “One of the principals of the licensing objectives is the protection of children from harm and the work undertaken by door staff has undoubtedly contributed towards our overall aim of making the city centre night time economy a safer place to visit and to enjoy”

He added, “The number of instances of fake identification has now decreased with some producing borrowed driving licenses or passports from friends or relatives to gain access to licensed premises. These documents are seized and returned to the DVLA or Passport Agency”.

“Effectively this is a disincentive to others to lend those documents as they then have to apply and pay for new documents, and this can have a knock on effect, particularly if they need those documents to go on holiday.”

With the results of the A Level and GCSE exams due to be released on the 19th and 24th August, the Police have some concerns that the results of those exams may lead to young people under 18 years trying to gain access to licensed premises in order to celebrate their results.

Mr John further added “Door staff at city centre premises will remain vigilant over the summer period and any further borrowed or fake identification would continue to be dealt with appropriately”.

Theft of Boat Trailer Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 9 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Friday 9 July 2010

South Wales Police is investigating a theft of a boat trailer that was stolen from Nash Point Lighthouse area at approximately 6am on Wednesday 30th June 2010.

Investigating Officer, PC Jamie Williamson of Llantwit Major Police Station said,

“We’re appealing to anyone who was in the Nash Point area at the time of this theft to come forward as you may hold vital information. We’re also appealing to anyone who may have seen a vehicle towing a boat trailer in Nash Point, or the surrounding villages, around the time of the theft to contact us. The make and model of the trailer is a Snipe R18-100.”

Anyone with information can contact PC Williamson at Llantwit Major Police Station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Chief Constable returns to the classroom

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

PUPILS at a Merthyr Tydfil Primary School had a new classmate for the day when Chief Constable Peter Vaughan paid them a visit.

Mr Vaughan joined Year Six pupils at Ynysowen Community Primary School in Aberfan, for a lesson on anti-social behaviour.

The class is among the first in Wales to have the lesson which is centred on the Welsh Assembly-funded DVD "I Didn’t Think".

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said: "I was very impressed with the positive attitude of the pupils at Ynysowen Primary School who, thanks to the lesson, have an even better understanding of anti social behaviour and the unacceptable effect it can have on individuals and wider communities.

"I would like to thank them for such a warm welcome and allowing me to observe the lesson.

"Young people are very often portrayed as the main culprits of anti-social behaviour but we must remember that such behaviour comes in many forms and those involved come from a whole range of backgrounds and ages.

"Tacking anti social behaviour is at the heart of my mission to keep South Wales safe and this lesson is just one way we are working with our partners to reduce such behaviour."

The DVD, which was launched earlier this year, teaches children about the consequences of anti-social behaviour and is being taught as a lesson plan to primary school pupils as part of the All Wales School Liaison Core
Programme.

Funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, the Home Office and four Welsh Police forces, the bilingual film follows the main character Ricky and explores the impact that his behaviour has on himself as the perpetrator, his family, and the wider community.

Rhondda officers swap beat for charity walk

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

NORTHERN BCU officers Natasha Foster and Cherylin Pryor exchanged their usual Rhondda beat to join more than 350 community members on an 11-mile Charity Walk.

The Park to Pit walk, in aid of the Macmillan charity, commenced at Tynewydd Park and ended at the Colliery Pit at the Heritage Park, Porth.

PCSO Natasha Foster said: "It was a marvellous community event. I met some amazing people along the route who all had personal stories which had inspired them to take part in the walk.

“There were a variety of ages and fitness levels, with some never having embarked on anything like an 11-mile walk. But all had the same common theme which was how wonderful the Macmillan nurses had been to their loved ones and they wished to show their appreciation by doing the walk and raising a great deal of money for the charity.”

Natasha's next challenge, having been inspired by the community members on the walk, is to abseil down the Celtic Manor Hotel in Newport for Macmillan on Sunday the 18th July.

For more information on the event and how to sponsor Natasha please visit www.ourbobby.com or contact Natasha on 07805 301070.

Bridgend Police Open Day : A Huge Success!

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 5 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Picture caption: Dominic Thomas, 11, a pupil at Pencoed Primary School had a great time at Bridgend Police Station Open Day on 4th July. Also pictured are Neighbourhood Inspectors Alan James of Porthcawl (left) and Jay Winslade-Gregory of Bridgend.

The first ever Bridgend Police Station open day has been hailed a huge success with up to 2,000 people attending the event.

The family fun day held (Sunday, July 4) was organised by South Wales Police in partnership with other community organisations.

Gates at the Brackla Street Police Station opened at 11.00am for the free five-hour event which included music from Bridge FM, specialist police and crime prevention stalls, the Fire Service and the Royal Navy.

Local officers were on hand to show how crimes are solved using fingerprint technology while the police cells, police dogs and horses, vehicles and museum stand also proved big attractions.

Detective Chief Inspector Marc Lamerton, who co-ordinated the event, said: “It was a great opportunity for people to meet their local officers in an informal way and it highlighted that South Wales Police are very much part of the local community.

“I am delighted that the good people of Bridgend, and further afield, had the opportunity to enjoy a day with us and I hope it reassured them about the commitment of South Wales Police, and the PACT process, to improve their quality of life and how hard we are working for them.

“We could not have organised this event without the help of our partners within Safer Bridgend and I am truly grateful to all those who helped make the day such a tremendous success.”

Please check www.ourbobby.com over the next few days for more photographs!

19 men charged after FA cup match against Chelsea

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 5 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police in a joint operation with the Metropolitan Police have arrested and charged 19 South Wales based men for the violent disorder that occurred in London on 13th February 2010 following the FA cup match against Chelsea.

The 19 men have been all been charged with violent disorder and bailed to court with the conditions not to attend at any football matches.

Detective Superintendent Liane James from South Wales Police said, “We recognise that it is a small minority of the travelling football community that get involved in violence – by relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting offenders we can make the environment safer for genuine fans and families who travel to support Cardiff City.

The partnership between South Wales Police, Cardiff City FC and genuine Cardiff City supporters is strong. Together we refuse to tolerate this type of behaviour at football fixtures. We will continue to work to understand and respond to the football communities needs, in particular to ensure a safe and secure environment for fans to watch and support their team.”

Cardiff City Football Club said, “Cardiff City note that once again a tiny minority who purport to support the team were intent on causing disorder at the FA Cup match against Chelsea in February. We are fully aware of Operation Ternhill and have been actively working with the police in South Wales and London to help trace the individuals, in order that they are held accountable for their actions.

We would stress that we consider these individuals as forming no part of Cardiff City Football Club and that the Club will continue to work with South Wales Police to build on the progress already made in ensuring that we remove from the game any individuals intent on causing disorder. We will also carry on working with the police and supporter groups in order to ensure that we continue to offer a suitable and safe environment in which the public can watch and support the team.

Police have a further 25 suspects in relation to the disorder at the Cardiff v Chelsea match in February. A joint operation to arrest these offenders is planned in the coming months.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 02920 222111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

New Mexico sentencing

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 1 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Four South Wales men are among 10 from across the UK who are due to be sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on 1st and 2nd July for conspiring to supply Class A drugs.

These are:
David Carl Richards: DOB 06/04/78, Garth Road, Rhydyfro, Pontardawe, Swansea
Keri Lyn Pritchard: DOB: 27/05/76, Alltywerin Road, Pontardawe, Swansea
Adam Horton: DOB 11/04/87, Mansel Terrace, Cwmbwrla, Swansea
David Williams: DOB 21/10/67, Brytwn Road, Cymmer, Port Talbot

They were arrested by South Wales Police during Operation New Mexico in June 2009, which was part of a wider Serious and Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) operation involving other police forces and law enforcement agencies.

Detective Superintendent Steve Benson-Davison, head of the Organised Crime Unit at South Wales Police, said:

“The quantities of drugs and cash seized were significant and the arrests disrupted a criminal gang who were trafficking drugs and laundering money across the country.

“South Wales Police will be relentless in its pursuit of individuals who cause the greatest harm to our communities.

“We will work with other law enforcement agencies and look to utilise every tool available to secure convictions and strip these criminals of any assets they have gained through their involvement in crime.

“This operation sent out a clear message to drug dealers and organised crime groups that it is our full intention to protect communities from the harm and misery they cause for their own profit.”

Inspector Jeff Handley of the Pontardawe Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“These individuals are very well known in the Swansea Valley community and perceived themselves to be untouchable as far as the law is concerned.

“What this operation has clearly demonstrated is that no-one is above the law and anyone involved in serious organised crime will be targeted and brought to justice.

"The Swansea Valley is a fantastic place to live and work. These people peddled misery to vulnerable members of our community who, once hooked, had no escape.

"I am delighted with the support we have had from our communities and I know that they were frustrated seeing these individuals living off the proceeds of crime, living lavish lifestyles and driving around in expensive cars.

"This operation has lasted over 18 months, most of which was out of the public eye. It’s essential that justice is not only done but seen to be done, which is what has been achieved today.”

Car crime figures plummet in the city

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

‘Over 100,000 people in Cardiff Bay for Armed Forces Day; 25,000 people in the city for the Paul McCartney concert and only 4 incidents of car crime all weekend.’*

That was the news that greeted delighted cops as they analysed crime statistics for the city this morning.

Acting divisional commander, Detective Superintendent Liane James said, “Ask anyone how may incidents of car crime a city the size of Cardiff gets on a daily basis – and the answer is usually 50 or 60. In-fact, after one of the busiest weekends of the year only one car was stolen and three broken into in the City, Bay and Canton areas over the whole weekend!

“And the good news is, despite the city having a residential population of 336,000, this isn’t a one off. Together with our partners we have worked hard at driving down car crime. Now, week after week the figures for car crime are consistently low. This means that we can now redirect the resources that we were dedicating to tackling car crime to other areas that affect people’s quality of life.

Of course, we couldn’t have achieved these figures without the help of the community. Community intelligence has been key. Help us to keep these figures at an all time low by contacting us with any information you may have. In particular we are keen to hear about people who may be handling goods stolen from vehicles.”

Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111

*figures relate to city centre, Cardiff Bay and Canton from Friday 25^th June to Sunday 27^th June inclusive

Five-year Policing Plan launched

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police and Authority has today launched its Policing Plan for 2010-2015.

This five year plan, unveiled by Chief Constable Peter Vaughan and Police Authority Chair Councillor Russell Roberts, sets out our policing priorities for the next five years and details how, together with our partners, we aim to deliver these priorities.

The Policing Plan 2010- 2015 has been developed based on the feedback our communities have given us, be it through Police Authority representatives, participation in consultation forums force-wide, at PACT meeting or in surgeries with our Neighbourhood Policing Teams.

As an Authority and a police service, we have made significant improvements in many areas over recent years, with 2009-10 seeing around 1,000 fewer victims of crime a month, that’s 30 fewer victims every day! We are proud of these results and will continue with our work to drive down crime and keep South Wales safe.

Equally as important to us is the perception our communities have of our police service and the way that we treat individuals. Recent research tells us that our communities’ are feeling more confident in us and in the service we provide, but we know we have more work to do in this area.

Consulting with our communities and our partners has been a key element in setting the priorities for 2010-15 and in preparing the Policing Plan. Since April, we have been consulting with community members about the style of our plan and the language we have used. The Policing Plan 2010-15 is the document by which our communities can hold us to account and it is important to us that they have a say in every aspect of it.

Residents of South Wales were invited by the Chief Constable via Real Radio to fill in an online survey at their convenience and researchers visited supermarkets and carried out face-to-face interviews with randomly selected members of the public.

From the research conducted, our communities key priorities for policing during 2010-15 are that we…

respond to and tackle anti social behaviour
are visible, accessible and fair
tackle substance and alcohol misuse
ensure value for money.

In publishing the five year plan , Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said:

“On taking up my post as Chief Constable earlier this year, I made a commitment to develop a better police service for all of our communities. In doing this, I agreed with the South Wales Police Authority that we would publish a five year plan that would enable us to become the best at understanding and responding to our communities’ needs.

“During the consultation process, we wanted to ensure that as many members of the public as possible were given the opportunity to have their say in our plan. It is only by listening carefully to the needs of our communities and working closely with our partner agencies that we will continue to improve our service.”

Chair of the Police Authority, Councillor Russell Roberts, said: “The launch of this plan sets out what we want to achieve as a police service over the next five years. As an Authority, we will be constantly monitoring this, to make sure that the priorities continue to reflect those of our communities.

“The next five years will undoubtedly see changes to the police service, as a result of financial constraints and the Coalition Government’s proposals for changing the structure of policing. We will work closely with the Chief Constable and all our officers to maintain, and improve on, the good performance we have seen in the last 12 months, and ensure any changes will not affect the service we provide to our communities.”

Visit Policing Plan section

Theft of football kits for Keynan children

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Swansea are appealing for information following the alleged theft of football kits which were destined for disadvantaged children in Kenya.

The kits, which are believed to be 13 in total and are all vacuum packed, were stolen from an address on Tycoch Road, Tycoch, sometime between 5.45pm and 6.15pm on Friday 25th June.

The kit comprised of black and red tops with the wording “Tumaini Kwa Watoto, along with the name of the charity “Children of Hope” and a dove crest, together with black shorts and black and grey socks.

The kits were going to be taken out to Kenya by the Children of Hope Charity.

Pc Chris Williams said “These kits were all packed and sealed in preparation for then to be taken out to Kenya by the “Children of Hope” charity. Should the kits be sold or used then they would be easily identifiable due the distinctive Kenyan wording and the name of the charity on the shirts”

“The kits were destined for some very deprived children, it is possible that a member of the public has picked the packages for safe keeping, and we would like very much to get them back.”

“I would urge anyone with information to come forward”

Anyone with information should contact Police in Swansea on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Extra eyes to reduce crime on Valley roads

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police in Pontypridd is working in partnership with a local bus company to help reduce crime and disorder.

Edwards Coaches has installed its own internal and external CCTV cameras in a large number of buses within their fleet.

The aim of the cameras is to keep passengers safe and help detect crime on the streets of Pontypridd.

Inspector Lee Porter, head of Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "The external CCTV cameras on the buses are an extra set of eyes for South Wales Police in Pontypridd and a further tool we have to reduce and detect crime.

"If drivers notice any suspicious or criminal behaviour while they are travelling around the Taff area, they will forward any CCTV footage to us.

"The company and its drivers are very much part of the Pontypridd community and we are delighted they are supporting South Wales Police in this way as we work together to keep people safe."

Commercial Director of Edwards Coaches, Jason Edward’s commented on the cameras: "We have installed these cameras at our own expense to help us provide above and beyond our promise of a friendly reliable local service, and deliver an additional extra level of comfort and security for our passengers.

"We have been overwhelmed with the fantastic local support we have received and as a local company we are continually looking at ways to enhance the service we provide."

Armed Forces day in Cardiff on Saturday

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

On Saturday 26 June 2010 Cardiff will host the second Armed Forces Day national event, supported by the Welsh Assembly Government, Cardiff Council and the Ministry Of Defence.

Show your support and for a free family day that will be full of ceremony, commemoration excitement and most importantly an opportunity to honour the Forces past, present and future.

South Wales Police will be there to support the event.

To inform you of road closures and whats happening during the event we will be tweeting updates throughout the day.

Just include the hash tag #armedforcesday when you search twitter.

Or you can follow our South Wales police twitter feed at twitter.com/swpolice

Fraudster Jailed After Stealing Victim's Identity

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Two South Wales Police officers seconded to the UK Border’s Agency have played a key role in jailing an American fraudster who was living illegally in the UK using the identity of a teenager who had died in a car accident.

William Victor Bernson III was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment after stealing the identity of Greg Smith – a fellow American who died in a car crash in the 1970s.

Bernson was able to acquire a legally-issued US passport under Greg Smith’s name and a decade ago travelled to the UK under his false identity.

Living in Brynderwen, Cilfynydd, near Pontypridd, Bernson worked as an online writer for several years.

The US authorities eventually discovered that the “Greg Smith” passport had been fraudulently obtained and contacted the UK Border Agency’s Immigration Crime Team.

Following an investigation which revealed how Bernson had stolen the dead teenager’s identity, he was arrested at his Cilfynydd home and charged with two fraud offences under the ID Cards Act and two offences of entering the UK by deception.

He admitted all the offences and was sentenced at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Friday (11 June) to 16 months in prison.

Seven similar offences were admitted and taken into consideration by the court and Bernson also faces deportation to the USA at the end of his sentence.

South Wales Police Sergeant Steve Evans is currently seconded as Head of the UK Border Agency’s Cardiff Immigration Crime Team, with DC Steve Jones from South Wales Police also working in the team.

Immigration Crime Teams are made up of specialist police and immigration officers and investigate offences committed by foreign nationals who have no legal right to be in the UK.

Sgt. Steve Evans said:

“This was a serious fraud in which this individual stole a dead person’s identity and used it to create a new life in the UK.

“Working with the American authorities, we were able to expose Bernson’s fraud and prevent him from profiting further from his dishonesty.

"The UK Border Agency’s Immigration Crime Team in Cardiff is cracking down hard on this type of offence committed by foreign nationals.”

Anyone who has information on immigration offenders in Wales can contact the UK Border Agency on 029 2092 4727.

Don't fall victim to scams

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

We have a new page giving advice on avoiding scams that we have just added to our website.

You can download an excellent leaflet produced by the Office of Fair Trading that has some great tips to help prevent you becoming a victim.

Go to scambuster page

Motorcycle Operation seizes 7 bikes: Cardiff

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Ely neighbourhood policing team seized 7 motorbikes as part of an operation to target off road motorcycle annoyance.

The use of off road bikes in and around the Ely area was highlighted as a PACT priority by local residents. The operation, organised by PCSO Craig Williams was a joint operation in partnership with Cardiff Council. 7 bikes were taken into police possession and one section 59 warning for anti-social use of a vehicle was issued.

PCSO Craig William said, “There has been a problem with the use of off road vehicles and associated anti-social behaviour in the Ely are for some time. 7 of these bikes are no longer on the road – and the operation should send out a clear message to other bike owners about using their vehicles appropriately.”

Funeral of Stuart Cable

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police and Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is working together to facilitate the funeral of Stuart Cable on Monday, June 21.

Officers and members of staff from a number of local authority departments will assist Stuart’s family, friends and the wider community.

We wish to advise that High Street and Rock Grounds car parks will be closed to the public as they will be used by vehicles that are part of the funeral.

Aberdare is expected to be extremely busy on Monday with the funeral beginning at St Elvan’s Church at around midday.

Those who do not urgently need to be in town are advised to avoid the area but if attendance in Aberdare is essential please bear in mind that it will be busy and to leave extra time for travelling and parking.

There will be plenty of police on duty to direct traffic and on hand to offer advice.

University of Glamorgan rape: Man charged

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A 29-year-old man from Northamptonshire has this afternoon appeared at Swindon Crown Court charged with a rape at the University of Glamorgan on Saturday, September 26.

He faces further charges which relate to separate sexual offences committed in the Wiltshire area and was remanded in custody until a further hearing in Swindon Crown Court on August 27.

Crime operation in Pontypridd town centre

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

CRIMINALS felt the strong arm of the law in Pontypridd town centre this week during Operation Hercules.

Police dogs and horses accompanied officers on patrol in the town centre including Ynysangharad Park during the one-day crime operation aimed as targeting drug misuse, shoplifting, and anti-social behaviour.

More than 20 people acting suspiciously were stop searched and eight people were arrested for various offences on Wednesday, June 16.

Sergeant Nick Jenkins, who organised the operation, said: "Anyone in Pontypridd on Wednesday will most certainly have noticed an increased police presence.

"The day was all about showing criminals that they are not welcome in the town centre, we will do all we can to keep them out and that they will be arrested if they come here to commit crime.

"I hope the public and local businesses feel reassured that South Wales Police is working hard to keep their town safe."

Two women aged 32 and 28 were arrested on suspicion of stealing toiletries and jewellery from Boots and an independent store.

Other arrests include a 38-year-old man who was stopped riding a bike through town, searched and found to be in possession of drugs while a 28-year-old year man was arrested for public order offences after verbally abusing people in the bus station.

As well as extra officers on foot and on mountain bikes, sniffer dog Cosmo who is trained to detect drugs was brought into the town centre and two police horses went on evening patrol in Ynysangharad Park.

The town centre now has its own dedicated police officer – Pc Ian Sullivan who patrols on a daily basis.

Sgt Jenkins added: "PC Ian Sullivan who is the dedicated Town Centre Police Officer patrols on a daily basis and is supported by other officers who together will be carrying out further operations to of this nature to make Pontypridd a truly uncomfortable place for criminals."

Bus Crews Issued With Spit Kits

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police in conjunction with First Cymru Buses have launched an initiative known as the "Spit Kit".

The kit which will be issued individually to all bus crews, who have daily contact with members of the public, can be used when a crew member has been subjected to an assault which involves spiting.

The Spit Kits can be used to gather samples of saliva or other bodily fluids, in an attempt to identify offenders and can then be used in any subsequent court proceedings.

Crew members, who have been spat at, will be actively encouraged to collect the saliva, using the Spit Kit, which comprises of gloves and swabs in a concealed container. The samples will then be handed to the police who will arrange for a forensic analysis.

Chief Inspector Will Rees said "Staff at First Cymru on a daily basis come in contact with members of the public and occasionally are subjected to assault where they have been spat at."

"This standard of behaviour is not acceptable, the use of the Spit Kits will offer staff some reassurance that steps are being taken to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice"

Len Stevens of First Cymru Buses said "The safety of our staff is paramount, and it is for this reason that we have bought and will be issuing the Spit Kits to our bus crews on an individual basis"

"We are working closely with the police and are actively encouraging our staff to use the kits following an attack which has involved them being spat at."

Spit Kits will issued to staff working from the following depots, Ravenhill (Swansea) Pontardawe, Port Talbot, Bridgend and Maesteg

ENDS

Rhondda burglaries: Police appeal for information

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE in the Rhondda are warning people to lock their doors at night following five burglaries in as many days.

Detectives have received reports of a woman trying door handles in the Pentre area and are following up enquiries in relation to this female.

One of the items stolen from a house was a pair of ladies jeans size 10 or 12.

Residents are reassured that extra patrols are being carried out to prevent further offences and catch the person responsible but in the meantime, residents are advised to lock their doors at night.

Detective Inspector Andy Jones, head of Rhondda CID, said: "This part of the Rhondda is a close-knit community where people feel confident in leaving their doors unlocked in the evenings.

"Unfortunately there are people out there who will take advantage of this trusting nature and look for easy opportunities to break into homes.

"We believe the person responsible has been walking the streets of Pentre and Ton Pentre trying door handles until they find one unlocked and then helping themselves to small items such as mobile phones, wallets and handheld computers.

"I would urge people to make sure their homes are secure, particularly in the hours of darkness, and of course ask anyone with information to contact us."

Three burglaries happened in Albert Street, Pentre and one in Baglan Street, Pentre, overnight between Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13.

The fifth burglary was in Wyndham Street, Ton Pentre overnight Wednesday, June 16 and Thursday, June 17.

All of the properties were occupied at the time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rhondda CID on 01443 743643 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Police target beach rowdies at Aberavon

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Pictured is Sergeant Paul Davies with Police Community Support Officers Richard Jones, Peter Strangward and Paul James at Aberavon Beach.

Crowds are flocking to Aberavon Beach to enjoy the summer sunshine – and so are members of the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

With the fine weather upon us large numbers of visitors are descending on the Port Talbot seafront.

Local officers are conducting regular patrols to ensure visitors remain safe and to deter any anti-social behaviour.

Operation Jewel will also target any criminal activity and vehicle annoyance in the beach car parks and along Princess Margaret Way.

Sergeant Paul Davies of the Sandfields and Aberavon Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “The seafront is a jewel in the crown of Port Talbot’s visitor attractions and is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every summer.

“The vast majority of people come here and thoroughly enjoy their visit and come back time after time.

“However, there is an element of criminal and anti-social behaviour which we are aiming to stamp on with Operational Jewel.

“We will be working with the beach lifeguards, the RNLI and local authority estate rangers to ensure the beach remains safe for everyone to enjoy.”

Residents have raised the issue of police presence at local PACT meetings as they believe it offers reassurance to those using the seafront facilities.

Officers are patrolling the area on foot and utilising mountain bikes, while traffic cars are targeting the vehicle related issues.

Sergeant Davies added: “A very small minority of people behave in such a way that spoils the enjoyment of other people and causes concern.

“Our work will aim to allow people to enjoy themselves without being in fear of crime or anti-social behaviour. Getting drunk, being rowdy and leaving cans and bottles strewn across the seafront will not be tolerated.”

After-dark patrols for Valley’s park

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE will be carrying out night time patrols in one of South Wales’s most well-known parks after incidents of criminal damage.
People have been entering Pontypridd’s Ynysangharad Park in the evenings after the gates have been locked and vandalising equipment.
Officers will now be patrolling the park after dark to prevent further damage and using sniffer dogs to catch the culprits.
Inspector Lee Porter, head of the town’s neighbourhood policing team, said: "Ynysangharad Park is a wonderful facility not just for the people of Pontypridd but for those all over South Wales.
"Unfortunately a minority feel the need to climb the fence after the gates have been locked and cause criminal damage which is unacceptable.
"The park already forms part of our daytime patrols but from now on it will be included in our night time duties.
"Our colleagues in the mounted section will be exercising their dogs in the park so anyone in the park at night might very well come across a police dog.
"I would ask parents to speak to their children about where they are going at night and to stay out of the park otherwise they might get a lift home in a police car."
There has been a significant decrease in daytime anti social behaviour in the last 12 months in the park thanks to the joint efforts of South Wales Police and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council.
The latest incident of criminal damage was discovered on Saturday, June 12 having occurred sometime after 9pm on Friday, June 11.
The wooden fence surrounding the outdoor swimming pool was smashed and remnants of the gates were thrown into the pool.
Attempts were also made to start the electric waterslide, causing damage to the control panel.
Cllr Paul Cannon, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Safer Communities, said: "We invest heavily to ensure Ynysangharad War Memorial Park remains a beautiful, attractive place for people to visit. It is, therefore, upsetting and concerning that such vandalism can occur and we will be working with the police to deal with this offending."
Anyone with information on who is responsible for this damage is asked to contact Pontypridd Police Station by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Rhonnda teenager traced

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Caroline Van Der Griten, aged 13, who was reported missing from the Tonypandy area of the Rhondda, has been found safe and well.

Police in Pontypridd target speeding drivers

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

MOTORISTS in Pontypridd are being warned by South Wales Police to slow down after 180 drivers were recorded exceeding the speed limit in less than two hours.

Police carried out speed checks in two locations in the town following concerns raised at Pact meetings by residents in Pwllgwaun and Trawlln about the speed at which some vehicles were travelling, particularly near schools.

PCSO Andrew Thomas and PCSO Lynne Meacham used a hand-held camera to record speed limits and then made a note of the registration numbers.

In just 35 minutes, 120 cars were recorded doing more than 30 mph outside Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Evan James, on Rhondda Road, Pwllgwaun, between 10.10am and 10.45am on Thursday, May 27.
On the same day in Bonvilston Road, Trallwn, a further 60 cars were found to be doing more than 30 mph between midday and 12.45pm.
Excuses made by some drivers who stopped at these locations included ‘I’m late picking my kids up’ and ‘I didn’t see the speed camera’.

All registered owners of the vehicles will now receive a letter from South Wales Police advising them of their speed and reminding them of the speed limit

Inspector Lee Porter, from the Taff Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The purpose of this operation was to educate motorists on the community’s concerns and the dangers to children from their excessive speed.

“The advisory letters will hopefully educate people and make them consider the impact on their own community, rather than just sending them a speeding fine.

“However further operations are planned in these areas and if their registration number is encountered again then we will prosecute the offenders.

To learn more about Pact priorities in your area log onto www.ourbobby.com

Assault in Trecynon: Update

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police celebrate Princes Trust success

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Neath Underpass given a makeover

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A Neath underpass which was covered in offensive words and pictures has been given a makeover.

Neath Police Community Support Officer James Tossell got out his paintbrush to support the initiative at Mary Street.

PCSO Tossell said: “The underpass is quite well used by local residents and it was covered in disgusting language and pictures.

“We teamed up with Communities First to provide funding for it to be cleaned up which we hope will provide a safer and more pleasant environment.”

The project was designed by a local artist and the work was carried out by local youngsters with support from Communities First and PCSO Tossell.

World Cup penalty for Port Talbot club

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 9 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A Port Talbot club has been forced to close just days before the big kick off of the World Cup in South Africa.

The Eden Club in Station Road had its licence suspended for two months by Neath Port Talbot Council last year following a number of breaches.

The club’s owners appealed against the decision which meant it has been able to continue operating. The appeal has now been withdrawn, resulting in the suspension coming into force immediately and will last until August 7th.

A licensing review was requested by Neath Port Talbot Police following breaches of its licence and a disproportionate number of incidents of crime and disorder linked to the premises.

PC John Williams, licensing officer for Neath Port Talbot Police, said: “Enforcement of legislation and licensing conditions is vitally important to ensure our town centres have a safe night-time economy.

“We are regularly checking on compliance and those licensed premises which are found to be in breach will be dealt with accordingly and prosecuted.

“Pubs and clubs have a duty to support the police and our partners in reducing violent crime and anti-social behaviour and help keep people safe during a night out in Neath Port Talbot.”

Visits to licensed premises are held which are designed to enforce legislation such as under-age sales, door staff registration, CCTV and various other conditions. These will continue throughout the duration of the football World Cup.

A number of licensing reviews have been held which have already resulted in premises having their licences suspended or even revoked.

Inspector Mark Lenihan of the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership added: “We have been consistent in our approach when dealing with licensed premises which repeatedly breach their conditions.

“We do this not only to ensure the safety of customers and people enjoying the night-time economy but to protect the staff of those premises as well.

“It is important that licensees support our zero tolerance approach on this issue and I am pleased to say that the vast majority do take their responsibilities extremely seriously and want to work with us.

“In the case of the Eden Club, it will now be closed for what is expected to be a busy and lucrative time of the year for pubs and clubs up and down the country.”

Escape into the Park 2010

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 9 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

This year's Escape Into The Park is being held at Singleton Park, Swansea on Saturday 12th June 2010, the gates are due to opened at midday, and the event scheduled to finish at 11pm.

The event has attracted a significant Policing presence over the years with community concerns about drug misuse and public order issues.

As well as having a professional search capability, South Wales Police will be mounting additional community patrols in the Sketty, Brynmill and Uplands areas to reassure the community and reduce the potential impact of the event on them.

At the conclusion of the event, there are likely to be road closures on Mumbles Road between Sketty Lane and Brynmill Lane, and motorists are advised to take alternative routes around the City when the event concludes.

For those attending the event, search is a condition of entry and there will be drugs dogs and search teams active at the entrance to the arena.

South Wales Police emphasise, that once again, their priority is to make this a safe environment for ticket holders to enjoy the occasion, and have worked with the event organisers, other emergency services and the local authority to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable day for local residents and attendees.

Inspector Bill John, City Centre Inspector, at Swansea Central stated, "The vast majority of those attending behave very well, but those who attend in possession of controlled drugs, or who conduct themselves in anti social manner will be dealt with fairly and firmly. The minority of those who behave anti socially jeopardise the enjoyment of the event for the majority and those who attempt to bring drugs to the event will be dealt with for those offences and excluded from the arena."

He added," Prior to the event we will search the area for drugs using passive dogs for concealed substances, and on the day there will be a proportionate search of any person suspected to have drugs on them. Our message to those attending is not to risk being arrested or excluded from the event by inappropriate conduct and our aim is the safety of attendees and reducing the impact on the community in the vicinity of the event"

Last year approximately 12,500 persons attended and 50 persons were dealt with for possession of drugs, with 4 persons arrested for public order offences.

Kona Mash-Up mountain bike event

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 9 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police are working with the organisers of a mountain bike event planned for the Glyncorrwg Mountain Bike Centre in Port Talbot this weekend.

The Kona Mash-Up event is being held on Saturday 12th June.

A recent mountain bike event held at Margam Park was targeted by thieves.

Inspector Karl Eenmaa of the Port Talbot Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This weekend will see hundreds of mountain bikers come to Glyncorrwg to enjoy the fantastic trails and facilities on offer which are now considered among the best in the UK.

“It is absolutely essential that all the visitors take every precaution available to them in order to keep their belongings safe. We also want to ensure that there is adequate security at the event. I have no doubt that there is an organised crime group targeting this area and these events to steal the expensive mountain bikes.

“Investigations into the previous incidents are ongoing and we are working with the event organisers to ensure that security is in place.”

Police are appealing for information on mountain bikes worth around £10,000 which have been stolen in Port Talbot.

A total of eight mountain bikes were stolen from a secure lock-up at the Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre at around 11.15pm on Tuesday 8th June.

Four of the bikes, worth around £4,000, were later found dumped in a hedge just off the A4107 road near the entrance to the village of Cynonville.

The remaining four remain outstanding and are described as follows:

2009 KONA 120 SUPREME, 18" frame, white forks, mostly white frame with orange and red graphics, value £900.

2010 KONA CADABRA 18" frame serial no. HOAH 12977, value £1,600

2010 KONA CADABRA 18" frame serial no. HOAH 13193, value £1,700

2010 KONA CADABRA 20" frame serial no. HOAH 13019, value £1,600

The above 3 bikes have white forks and red and silver frames.

Police are investigating the thefts and are appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious activity near the Afan Argoed visitor site to come forward.

The thefts follow an incident at Margam Park when nine specialist bikes worth around £30,000 were stolen at the National Mountain Bike Championships between Saturday 29th May and Sunday 30th May.

Anyone with information is asked to contact South Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Aberdare sudden death

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 7 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Demonstrations Update

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Sat, 5 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is pleased to announce that planned WDL demonstrations and UAF counter demonstrations passed off peacefully. There were only three arrests which were made for low level public order offences by officers policing the demonstrations.

Demonstrations were held by the UAF and WDL in both Swansea and Cardiff. The arrests were all made in Cardiff, and were all in relation to individual breaches of Section 14 of the Crime and Public Order Act, which means that the individuals failed to follow instructions from officers and therefore did not act within the parameters previously agreed between all parties for a lawful protest.

Those arrested include two men, aged 48 and a 53, and a 45 year old woman.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft said: “The demonstrations have passed without significant disruption to the wider community and without injury to the protestors and I would like to express my thanks to the vast majority of people who demonstrated peacefully.

“There were some flashpoints throughout the day which may have concerned some onlookers, but to an extent, this was anticipated between two large groups who hold opposing views.

“The main thing is that nobody got injured as a result, and that the vast majority of protestors went about their activities in a responsible and orderly manner, meaning that only three arrests had to be made.

“There should have been no surprises for anyone attending the event, as from the outset, I stated to those planning on getting involved in the demonstrations that they were quite entitled to express their views lawfully, but that robust action would be taken in response to individuals who engage in illegal activities.

“In policing terms, the day has been successful for South Wales Police. Our s t ated aims and objectives were met. I would like to thank communities across Cardiff and Swansea for their co-operation and understanding, and also pay tribute to police officers who policed the protests in Swansea and Cardiff. They acted extremely professionally today to ensure the safety of themselves, of the demonstrators, and of the general public.”

Ends

Reassurance Ahead of June 5th Demonstrations

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 3 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is preparing to facilitate a number of demonstrations which are planned by two separate groups for this Saturday, June 5 (2010).

Police liaison with all groups involved in Saturday’s activities has been ongoing for some time, and will continue up until the events take place. The public can be reassured that plans are being put in place to police the demonstrations effectively and to ensure minimum disruption.

South Wales Police can confirm that the first demonstration, expected to be the larger of two separate demonstrations being organised by the Welsh Defence League, will take place in Cardiff on Saturday, June 5 at 14:00hrs. This will be a static assembly situated on Museum Avenue in Cardiff.

A counter demonstration will be held in Cardiff by the group Unite Against Fascism (UAF). A procession will be led from Roald Dahl Plass in Cardiff Bay at 11:00am, and will finish at a location between the Cardiff Law Courts and the City Hall. A road block will follow the procession along the route between these two locations (Bute Place; James Street; Clarence Road; Corporation Road; Clare Road; Clare Street; Lower Cathedral Road; Cowbridge Road East; Kingsway / Castle; Boulevard De Nantes).

A second static demonstration organised by UAF will be smaller in size, and will take place on Saturday (June 5, 2010) in Swansea’s Castle Square at 11:00am.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft said: “The police have a responsibility to facilitate every person’s right of expression and their right to demonstrate lawfully. South Wales Police maintains a strictly impartial position on any related issues and causes.

“It is also our role to safeguard the right of the general public to go about their normal business, and to ensure the demonstrations do not disrupt local business activities.

“As with any demonstration where strongly held views are expressed, there’s a possibility of public disorder from demonstrators and from those who oppose their views.

“We know this, as within some otherwise lawful demonstrations in this force area and outside, a few individuals have resorted to criminal activity to further their cause.

“South Wales Police will act swiftly and proportionately in response to any criminal offences. Officers have been in dialogue with organisers of all demonstrations for some time, and South Wales Police’s position has been made explicit – Therefore there will be no surprises for any demonstrator who engages in unlawful variations on what has been agreed and they will be robustly dealt with”.

“The nature of the demonstrations, mean pockets of areas across both cities may be affected for a short period, but the public can be assured that measures such as road closures which will be taken by South Wales Police and our partners are all absolutely necessary. I would like to thank the public in advance for their understanding and co-operation.

“Both Cardiff and Swansea both have particularly diverse communities and a long history of different cultures living harmoniously together. The area is rightly proud of its multicultural heritage and South Wales Police will not tolerate unlawful activities which aim to disrupt these good relations.

“Thousands of people from all walks of life visit the force area to shop, watch sport and enjoy the nightlife. This weekend will be no different. It is a particularly busy weekend with a number of large events taking place and of course this will be a challenge for us. But we would like to reassure the community – and those intending to enjoy the events on Saturday - that considerable planning over a long period has preceded this day, which will help contain activities to designated areas, so the impact on the wider community will be minimal.

“We have a long history and an excellent reputation for policing large scale events which have the potential for public disorder, and we are confident that this experience will enable us to police the demonstrations.”

Rhondda Cynon Taff mini hero praised by police

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 1 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A FIVE year old boy from Rhondda Cynon Taff has been hailed a hero after coming to the aid of his grandmother.

Ross Button remembered what he had been taught in school by a police officer and knew just what to do when Nan fell over while she was babysitting – he shouted for help then decided to dial 999.

Now the Pontyclun Primary School pupil has been rewarded for his brave actions with a certificate from South Wales Police School Liaison Officer Pc Louise Daniells which was presented during a special school assembly.

Pc Daniells said: “Ross was being looked after by his Nan after school when she fell over and couldn’t get up.

“He remembered the lesson I had delivered on emergency services and what to do when you need help and proceeded to shout for help from his grandmother’s doorstep.

“When nobody came to his assistance, he told his Nan he was going to dial 999.”

Grandmother Marion Rossiter insisted that 999 wasn’t necessary so instead Ross fetched his Nan’s glasses, telephone book, and telephone so they could call for a relative instead.

Pc Daniells, who teaches in 20 schools in Taff South, added: “It is unusual for a boy of Ross’s age to remember everything in this kind of situation.

“His actions show the value of our input at such a young age. Not only do the children learn practical skills but they also learn to trust the emergency services, the police in particular, and that we are here to help.”

Pontyclun Primary School, like all other schools in Wales, is part of the All-Wales School Liaison Programme.

The educational programme which is delivered by police school liaison officers started in September 2004 and is arranged into three main strands - drugs and substance misuse, social behaviour and community and safety

Hugh Roberts, headteacher at Pontyclun Primary School, said: “I think what Ross did is fantastic and we are all very proud of him.

“It shows that what we have been teaching is working and I am just glad he was able to raise the alarm and that his Nan was okay.

“The input we have from South Wales Police is superb as it cover so many different aspects of keeping safe that have a positive impact on the pupils.”

Man's body found in Porth

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 1 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh Capital Beats the Burglars

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff has been ‘safe as houses’ for the past three days, with not a single dwelling burglary being reported to South Wales Police.

Despite the city having a residential population of around 350,000, on Tuesday (25th) Wednesday (26th) and Thursday (27th) of this week, not a single dwelling burglary occurred. On average however, the Welsh capital continues to work on just 4 dwelling burglaries per day.

Divisional Commander for policing in Cardiff, Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby, said that these results were due to excellent partnership working and raising awareness to prevent crime.

He said: “Working with our partners at Safer Capital has given us the opportunity to educate people from all walks of life on how to prevent burglary.

“Through youth intervention and great work with Cardiff University volunteers, we’ve been able to show young people how to safeguard themselves from opportunist thieves. Close work with the Wales National Offender Management Team and the probation service has also helped with the rehabilitation of offenders.

“Burglary is a devastating crime that can have a detrimental affect on victims who not only lose their possessions, but who also feel personally deceived. For these reasons, we’ve invested heavily in forensic opportunities to catch the people who are making a career from crime, and it’s paying dividends.

“Over the last 12 months, there have been 4,411 less victims of crime and 429 less burglaries compared to the year before. These good results mean we have more time to provide a quality service to victims and more time to investigate their crimes.

“Obviously there is always room to improve, and we continue to be fully committed to doing everything we can to listen to the public and respond to their needs.

“We’re grateful to the media who continue to help us share our good news with the people of Cardiff and boost their confidence in policing. As a result, we’re receiving more intelligence from the public to help us target offenders and bring them to justice.

“For example, more community intelligence on individuals who appear to live above their means has meant we’ve been able to target stolen goods handlers and their premises, and apprehend offenders through the Proceeds of Crime Act to strip them of the financial proceeds they’ve gained through others misfortune.

“I’m so grateful to our communities and partners for helping us make Cardiff one of the safest cities in the UK.”

Mock trial for young people at Merthyr Crown Court

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

MORE than 50 young people took part in a mock trial at Merthyr Crown Court in an event organised by Community Justice.
The aim of the event was to give young people an insight into the criminal justice system and encourage them to be better citizens.
The youngsters who were aged between 11 and 24, were given a tour of the court building including the cells and witness care unit.
As well as Her Majesty’s Court Service a number of criminal justice agencies were represented, including local magistrates, South Wales Police, Crown Prosecution Service, Probation Service, HMP Ashfield, Reliance, Youth Offending Team, and Victim Support.
Chief Inspector Ian Bellshaw, from South Wales Police, said: “The police worked with the court and Community Justice during this event to give the students knowledge about the legal process and consequences of committing crime so that they can make educated choices.
“I think this is the best way for young people to learn about the Criminal Justice System because they go through the process themselves and get to ask the relevant people questions.
“If this deters young people from getting involved in crime then it is a worthwhile event.”
The young people who attended the event were from Youth PACTs, the Youth Cabinet, the Forsythia Youth Centre and those working with the Youth Offending Team’s prevention project.

They also had the opportunity to speak with solicitors from local company Marchant Harries & Co about their role while representatives from the University of Glamorgan, Merthyr College and Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil (VAMT) gave advice on jobs and voluntary opportunities

Huw Evans, Court Manager at Merthyr Tydfil Law Courts, said: “It was extremely pleasing to see so many youths, from the Merthyr Tydfil Area, come along to the first Merthyr Tydfil Community Court Youth Open evening. Events such as this are important because they give the young people who take part a better understanding of the law.
“The feedback we have received has been very positive and we have had request to run the event on a regular basis, something that we will be looking to do. We hope that by providing a better understanding of the Criminal Justice System the Community will benefit and by engaging with the Youths of Merthyr Tydfil we hope we can improve the way we carry out our business.”

If your community group would be interested in learning more about the work of the criminal justice system please contact Laura Jenkins (Community Justice Coordinator) on laura.jenkins@ merthyr .gov.uk or 01685 725472

Rhondda mountain bike pursuit results in arrest

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A POLICE pursuit on mountain bikes through a Rhondda shopping centre resulted in the arrest of a man on suspicion of drug dealing earlier today.

Members of the local neighbourhood policing team who were patrolling the area on bikes tracked down the man in Hannah Street, Porth, at around lunchtime.

Local Inspector Mike Jones said: “There was a considerable police presence in Porth this afternoon and I wish to thank the local community for their support and co-operation while we carried out this arrest.”

Officers had planned to carry out a search warrant under the drugs act at a property in Station Street but at the last minute received information that the suspect was riding his bike in the town centre.

Members of Porth Neighbourhood Policing PC Nigel Bird and PCSO Dai Hughes were directed to the area and, following a pursuit along Hannah Street, a 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of class A drugs with intent to supply.

Items believed to be 14 wraps of heroin, a small bag of powder also believed to be drugs, and £800 cash was recovered.

A subsequent search of a property resulted in a further significant amount of money being found and an amount of drugs.

A 24-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of possession of drugs with intent to supply and they both remain in custody.

Inspector Jones added: “This incident has proved the value of police officers riding mountain bikes when on patrol as they are able to get around the community quicker and more widely.

“I hope the local community are reassured by today’s activity that we at South Wales Police are committed to tackling the use and supply of drugs and such illegal activity will not be tolerated in the Rhondda.”

Pontypridd school children stay SAFE

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THE DANGERS of drugs and effects of anti social behaviour were brought to life by Rhondda Cynon Taf school children at a recent presentation evening.

Pupils from five primary schools took part in the event at Bryn Celynnog Comprehensive School, Beddau, Pontypridd, showing off their singing, dancing and acting skills.

Behind their performances were messages on the effects of substance misuse and anti social behaviour which they had been taught as part of the police educational programme SAFE (Substance Awareness for Everyone) which teaches Year Six children about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco and drugs.

Taff Chief Inspector Huw Lewis, who presented the pupils with certificates, said: “The children had clearly taken on board the serious issues that they had been taught by officers as part of SAFE and were able to use that knowledge to entertain the community.

“I was extremely impressed by their positive attitude, talent and enthusiasm.”

Councillor Paul Cannon, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Safety, said: “It is important that our younger residents have a clear understanding of the issues that affect them and the dangers that can be posed by substance misuse and anti-social behaviour.

“We work hard with the police and schools to put on innovative and engaging classroom-based workshops that allow pupils to get to grips with the issues that matter the most, hopefully giving them the information and confidence they need to make the right decisions.”

The primary schools that took part were Gwauncelyn, Maesybryn, Llanilltud Faerdref, Llwyncrwn and Gwaunmeisgyn.

Gwauncelyn sang a Lady Ga Ga song, Maesybryn did their own version of the television show the Weakest Link by, while Llanuilltud Faedref pupils performed a self-penned play.

Llwycrwn sang Eye of the Tiger and Gwaunmeisgyn performed a SAFE version of the YMCA.
Councillor Eudine Hanagan, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: “It was obvious the children had grasped a firm understanding of the issues.

“Thanks to the cluster worker Kimberley Mckenzie at Bryn Celynnog, the year six pupils in all these primary schools were brought together for an enjoyable and important experience that has, also, enabled an easier transition to secondary school.”

South Wales Police say "No to Off-Road Nusiance"

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police and Forestry Commission Wales are gearing up to drive illegal off-road bikes and 4x4 vehicles out of the South Wales Valleys with a simple message: “No more off-road nuisance.”

This summer, neighbourhood policing teams will be working alongside Forestry Commission Wales and other partner agencies to crack down on offenders who are illegally riding or driving on prohibited land, tracks and trails without permission from land owners and land managers, and those who are riding antisocially.

Led by Forest Crime Officer Sergeant Andrew Scourfield, who is currently seconded to Forestry Commission Wales, the campaign will run all summer long.

Sergeant Scourfield said: “Illegal off-road motorcycling and driving might be perceived as a victimless crime by some, but that really isn’t the case.

“Farmers and land-owners have to foot the bill for criminal damage caused to property as a selfish few gain unlawful access to land, and the environmental damage caused is spoiling the countryside that so many of us like to enjoy in the summer months.

“We want to reassure our rural communities that off-road nuisance won’t be tolerated; we’re listening to their concerns and are tackling rural crime and antisocial behaviour in all its forms to keep South Wales safe.”

During the campaign, officers will be carrying out targeted proactive patrols in wards throughout the force area, including Maesteg, Caerau, Cymmer, Ton Pentre, Tonypandy, Ferndale and Mountain Ash, using their powers to stop and search vehicles and seize them where appropriate.

Officers will also be educating off-road motorcyclists and drivers on places where they can enjoy activities in a safe and legal environment, in order to prevent future incidents occurring.

Sergeant Scourfield said: “It’s important to make the public aware that not all riders who appear to drive off-road ‘scrambler’ type bikes are breaking the law.

“Many are responsible riders who bike on the roads legally and ride on by-ways and legal tracks. These riders follow a code of conduct and enjoy the countryside in the same way as a walker, cyclist or horse rider.

“This campaign isn’t targeted at all off-road riders – it’s specifically targeting those who ride unlawfully or in an antisocial manner, and are spoiling other people’s quality of life.”

In recent years, a significant number of legal off-road routes have been closed down or restricted, seriously limiting the areas where responsible law-abiding riders can enjoy their activities.

Peter Cloke, Deputy Forest District Manager of Forestry Commission Wales said: “We often receive complaints from visitors who have had their visit to the forest spoilt due to the irresponsible behaviour of a minority of scrambler bike users.

“We welcome the support of South Wales Police in cracking down on antisocial motorcycle use in the forests of south Wales.”

Other forms of rural crime such as fly-tipping, grass fires, and wildlife crime will also be addressed by officers during the summer crackdown.

If you have any concerns about off-road biking and vehicles, you can share your concerns with your neighbourhood policing officer at your next local PACT meeting. To find details on who your local neighbourhood officer is and the date of your next PACT meeting, visit www.ourbobby.com.

To report a non-emergency incident to South Wales Police, dial 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Showing the Door to Doorstep Crime

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

An awareness campaign to help reduce doorstep crime has been launched today (Wednesday, May 26th 2010) at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

The fully bi-lingual campaign will beam TV ads into living rooms, and post mailers through hundreds of thousands of letterboxes throughout May and June this year.

The campaign offers advice in the form of three clear steps which have been developed to help decrease the number of rogue trader and distraction burglary victims across Wales, and to increase the reporting of suspicious doorstep incidents.

The three-part message to the public is:

If in doubt, keep them out!
Be prepared, be in control
Call a neighbour or the police

The campaign is the All-Wales Doorstep Crime Group’s response to an agreed call for action, following concerns that many - if not most doorstep-type crimes - are going completely unreported.

According to statistics, doorstep crime is no more prevalent across Wales than any other part of the UK. There were 104 incidents reported in 2009, which is actually the lowest recorded across Wales for five years. But, in contrast, calls to Trading Standards shows a 10 per cent increase in reports year on year, signalling a possible rise in some activity. Females over 80-years-old who live on their own are especially vulnerable.

South Wales Police Assistant Chief Constable Richard Lewis said:

“Doorstep crime is an insidious and deceitful act. Those who carry out these crimes have no place within our communities. The police service fully backs this campaign which not only supports the vulnerable and elderly in our communities, but also targets those who commit the crimes.

“Victims of doorstep crimes are our parents, grandparents, friends and neighbours. I would urge everyone who knows somebody they think is vulnerable to help us spread the messages and the advice carried by this campaign. It is also vitally important that people provide the police service with information about suspicious incidents, to us to help us remove those who commit these crimes from our streets.”

The Social Justice Minister Carl Sargeant said:

“Doorstep crime is particularly appalling as it targets the most vulnerable people in society, making older people feel afraid to open the door.

“The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to tackling doorstep crime, by providing £1.8 million for an initiative aimed at crimes of concern to older people, including this ‘All-Wales Doorstep Crime Campaign’.

“This campaign is important as it raises awareness of the dangers of doorstep fraudsters, and offers clear advice on how to react if a doorstep caller knocks at the front door. My advice to people worried about doorstep fraudsters is, if in doubt keep them out!”

David Cornock, who lost his 76-year-old mother Anne to cancer shortly after she was cheated out of hundreds of thousands of pounds, when she became the victim of a doorstep crime, said:

“Neither I nor my sister knew our mother had become a victim of crime until we noticed something suspicious about her financial situation. A letter revealed that she was overdrawn at a time when she should have been living comfortably off her pension.

“When we asked her about it she was devastated that we had found out. She was totally embarrassed and ashamed. It soon became apparent that her final months were spent juggling the serious realities of cancer with what was unbelievably, her more pressing need, to sort out the financial state that she was tricked into.”

Over the period of a year, Anne Cornock was conned out of more than two hundred and seventy thousand pounds – her life savings – after she agreed to have her driveway paved by tradesmen who turned up unannounced at her address in Sully, South Wales.

He added, “The offenders destroyed the last year of my mother's life. She was too ashamed and intimidated to tell anyone, which had a huge impact on her health. By the time she saw a doctor, it was too late.

“Our mother was a devoted mother and grandmother, a decent woman who worked hard all her life. She an intelligent, sensible woman - if she could fall for this, anyone could.

“My advice to other vulnerable people out there is that if somebody unexpected knocks your door, just be extra cautious and very careful. In fact the safest option is not to even open the door and engage with them, because there really are some evil, nasty people out there preying on vulnerable people,” said David.

The main target audience for the campaign are people over 65-years-old as records show they are the most vulnerable. Their middle aged children, who are arguably in the best position to empower and influence their parents, are also targeted by the campaign.

In line with a cold-caller theme, an animated ‘ice-man’ character features most prominently throughout all the elements of the campaign, including a TV ad which goes live on May 31; a direct mail campaign targeting people living in Wales aged over 65; radio ads which go on air half way through June; and bus panel and press advertising throughout June and July.

At the centre of the campaign will be a dedicated website www.doorstepcallers.co.uk which offers advice about how to deal with unannounced doorstep callers, and also explains how people can help others. It will be rich in content providing case studies and opportunities to download items which can be used to help tackle the problem.

The campaign, which has been funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, has been developed by the All-Wales Doorstep Crime Group, a partnership comprising of the Police Service, Local Authorities, Trading Standards and support groups such as Age Cymru.

Dave Riley, Chair of Welsh Heads of Trading Standards said:

"Rogue traders are unscrupulous criminals who take advantage of householders by pressurising them into making hasty decisions. Trading Standards services throughout Wales and the rest of the United Kingdom are working together and in partnership with the police to protect and inform the public and to bring the criminals to justice. This campaign is an important step forward in our work in Wales."

Family's plea to domestic violence victims

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The family of murder victim Bethan Callaghan has urged victims of domestic violence to seek help and contact police following the conviction of Terry Andrews at Merthyr Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday, May 25).

Terry Andrews, 36, of Matthewstown, Mountain Ash, was found guilty of murdering 20-year-old Bethan following an eight-day trial at Merthyr Crown Court and was told he must serve a minimum of 16 years of a life sentence.

Bethan was found with serious injuries at an address in Pentwyn Avenue, Matthewstown, on Tuesday, September 29 and later died in hospital.

Andrews had claimed her injuries were sustained when she was hit by a car.

In a statement, released by South Wales Police on their behalf, Bethan’s family said: “As a family we have endured eight months of pain and anxiety but today we can finally lay Bethan to rest knowing justice has been served.

“If there is anything positive to be drawn out of this tragedy it is that we would hope that people, who are victims of domestic abuse, no longer suffer in silence.

“We would ask them to find the courage to make that one phone call as there are people that care and can help.

“We would also like to thank South Wales Police in their great work in bringing Terry Andrews to justice.”

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Mark Lewis said: “Our thoughts today, as always are with Bethan’s parents, relatives and friends who I hope are given some closure as a result of the jury’s decision.

“South Wales Police is committed to tackling domestic violence and we always pursue perpetrators while also working in conjunction with our partners to provide support for victims.

“I would urge anyone who is suffering from domestic violence to seek support as there is help out there.

“I would also personally like to thank the community of Matthewstown, Mountain Ash, for their support during the investigation.”

Anyone suffering from, or with information relating to incidents of, domestic violence should:

• Call 999 in an emergency

• Contact South Wales Police on 101; or the free and confidential Wales Domestic Abuse 24 hour helpline on 0808 80 10 800

PACT partnership works for Penywaun residents

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Crime-fighting partners in the Cynon Valley have launched a zero tolerance campaign against crime and anti-social behaviour in Penywaun, following calls from residents.

Individuals whose behaviour is deemed to be unacceptable by partners will find themselves subject to Acceptable Behaviour Contracts, Anti-Social Behaviour Orders and may also be evicted from their homes.

The launch of the campaign is being delivered by RCT Homes, South Wales Police and Council Anti Social Behaviour Officers, working together under the Community Safety Partnership.

It began following a recent Partnership and Communities Together (PACT) meeting where large numbers of the community attended to highlight unacceptable issues they were suffering, including verbal abuse, vandalism, burglary, alcohol abuse and other criminal activity.

The catalogue of crime and disorder caused such concerns that partner agencies immediately began a joint plan of action.

Evidence has been gathered against individuals who will be considered for Acceptable Behaviour Contracts that will put in place strict standards of behaviour expected.

RCT Homes has also taken action against the tenancies of certain offenders, issuing Notices of Seeking Possession against those tenants identified as breaking their tenancy agreements through persistent anti-social behaviour.

Sonia Dellay, RCT Homes Community Safety Officer said,

“The PACT meeting was a real turning point for Penywaun as a community as we were able to get the information we needed to tackle these issues of anti social behaviour head on. By working in partnership with the community all organisations involved can share information and work together to offer a more effective solution.

“The community are supportive and recognise that, for this to work, in many cases we would need them to stand up and give evidence. We are looking to continue this proactive approach to community safety, ensuring Penywaun residents can enjoy living in their homes and community.”

Phil Bevan, Head of the Community Safety Partnership, said: “This is a key example of partnership in action.

“No one agency can work in isolation to effectively tackle the issues being faced in Penywaun. That is why we have all joined forces with the community itself to look at the issues and what part we all play in the solutions.

“The partnership has an excellent track record of dealing with anti-social behaviour, we will not tolerate it and we have a team of expert officers who work to deal with offenders and establish a better quality of life for residents.

“This is not a short-term fix, we have listened to the residents of Penywaun and will work to improve the situation.

“The key to that long-term success is the continued support and cooperation of residents, so we can work with them to ensure they have ownership of where they live – and feel safe and proud in their communities.”

Inspector Steve Meek, in charge of Neighbourhood Policing in the Cynon Valley, said:

“Members of the local community have raised an issue via the Pact process and as always, when this happens, we will work with our partners to take action.

“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own community and we will not tolerate the minority of people who are determined to commit crime and disrupt peaceful life in the Cynon Valley.

“Anti social behaviour orders are a last resort once all other avenues have been considered and exhausted, but it remains an option that we will take if necessary.”

All Wales Anti Mobile Phone Driving Campaign

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Add your text here

Cynon Valley pupils are proud and positive

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

ALMOST 100 school children from the Cynon Valley have taken part in the South Wales Police football tournament.

The third annual event, organised by the local neighbourhood policing team, was hosted by Aberdare High School and was is aimed at Year 6 pupils in order to further build relationships with the police.

Sergeant Geoff Roberts, from the Cynon North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "The informal atmosphere encourages new friendships and increases trust between children, who they will be attending secondary school with, and also their local officers.

"This will hopefully steer children away from anti-social behaviour and crime."

Seven primary Schools from Cynon North took part in the successful event with more than 90 children attending and for the second year running

Llwydcoed won the overall tournament beating Penywaun Primary in the final.

The children, aged 10 and 11, also took part in a logo design competition incorporating the South Wales Police values - Professional, Proud and Positive.

Leon Moore, a pupil at Cwmdare Primary School, had the winning design which was printed on a T-shirt and presented by the Lord Mayor to all the children who took part.

Lord Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf Councillor Robert Smith, who supported this event throughout and assisted with the presentations, said: "I am pleased that so many young people from across the Cynon Valley were given the chance to take part in this tournament.

"It enabled them to learn new skills, make friends and, importantly, build relationships with the police, who are there to help and support them."

Special thanks to event sponsors Rhondda Cynon Taf homes, Cynon Valley Crime Prevention, Penderyn Neighbourhood Watch, Penywaun Youth Development Team, Cardiff City Football Club, Tesco Aberdare, the Co-op in Hirwaun and Aberdare High School for allowing use of their gym and facilities.

The Cynon North Neighbourhood Policing Team is made up of.PS Geoff Roberts, Special Constable Louise Jarman (Aberdare West) PC Andy Falder, PCSO Paul Jones and PCSO Ceri Price, (Penywaun) PC Fay Moulds and PCSO Stu Hollard, (Hirwaun, Penderyn Rhigos) PC Nick Murray, PC Judith Reynolds, PCSO Nicola Bryant and Linsey Band.

For contact details and to learn more about your local neighbourhood policing team log onto www.ourbobby.com

New officers welcomed to Northern BCU

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TEN new police officers will begin their beat in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff (Northern BCU) after graduating from training.

The officers took part in a passing out parade at the University of Glamorgan where they were welcomed by Chief Superintendent Kevin O’Neill.

Chief Supt O’Neill said: "The passing out parade was a significant moment for the new officers but also for our communities who will soon be seeing these faces on the streets of Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff.

"The parade signifies the end of their training and the start of their policing career with South Wales Police – the hard work starts now and they are all keen and determined to make a difference."

The ten officers will continue to be assessed through their two year probationary period, during which time they must achieve a Level 3 Diploma qualification in Basic Policing.

These officers were among 40 officers to recently graduate from the Universities Police Science Institute at the Vale of Glamorgan, Initial Police Learning Development Programme at University of Glamorgan, Treforest, where they learnt skills such as the effective investigation of crimes and the importance of community-led policing.

As part of the structured-learning program, the student police officers undertook a series of practical exercises dealing with real life scenarios in public places, enabling them to transfer their new found policing skills to ‘real time’ incidents.

Chief Supt O’Neill added: "Despite these difficult financial times, I hope residents feel reassured that the force is still investing in front-line policing. Initially these officers will be on response which means they will be the ones responding to 999 calls delivering a prompt response to any emergency."

The following recruits will be based in Dowlais Police Station: Pc Jennifer George, PC Matthew O’Sullivan, PC Andrew Evans, PC James Hutchings and Pc Bernadette Collins.

The following recruits will be based Pontypridd Police Station: Pc Anthony Ferguson, Pc Paul Bishop, Pc Michael John, Pc Nathan Grattan-Smith and Pc Richard Davies. Pc Davies won the course award for ‘Student of the Course’ voted by his peers for his commitment and support to others officers.

Merthyr youngsters rewarded for ASB decrease

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A GROUP of young people from Merthyr Tydfil recently enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of South Wales Police headquarters as a reward for a local decrease in anti-social behaviour.

The children visited a number of different departments at force headquarters in Bridgend including the mounted section (dogs and horses) and the underwater specialist search unit.

It was organised as a reward for those who attend the weekly Xbox league at the Pant Annex which has contributed to a dramatic decrease in anti-social behaviour.

Pc Ian Francis, Neighbourhood Beat Manager for Dowlais, said: "My colleagues and I were discussing with James Hawker at the Dowlais Forum a way to reward the young people for their commitment to attending the youth club every Friday night.

"We decided a trip to force headquarters was the ideal way to further build the good relationship between the young people and South Wales Police, and also give the youngsters an opportunity to see the variety of services we provide to the community."

The Xbox league was launched in January 2010 following complaints of youth annoyance in the Pant area on Friday evenings. So far 293 young people between the ages of 8 and 17 have attended the project which also gives them other opportunities such as joining the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

Significantly, anti social behaviour has decreased 100 per cent as there have been no reports of anti social behaviour since the project started.

Pc Francis added: "The Dowlais Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue working with local young people as organised activities such as the Xbox football league club are proving successful in taking young people off the street and reducing anti-social behaviour."

During last month’s visit, the youth people answered police-related questions, completed a police word search and were given an information sheet on how to contact their local police officers.

PC Francis added; "I would like to thank ASDA in Dowlais for donating several chocolate prizes for the competition involved in the trip and Communities First for providing the children with packed lunches."

Distraction burglaries in RCT: Man charged

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A 46-year-old man from Treharris, Merthyr Tydfil, has been charged with four distraction burglaries in the Taffs Well and Cilfynydd areas of Rhondda Cynon Taff.

The alleged offences took place on May 6 and May 14.

He was arrested on Sunday and is due to appear at Rhondda Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday, May 18).

Off-road bikers targeted in the Cynon Valley

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Nuisance off-road bikers in the Cynon Valley continue to be targeted by the Rhondda Cynon Taf Community Safety Partnership.

The issue of off-road motorbike use has been identified by local councillors and residents as a problem particularly at weekends in the Aberaman area.

Sergeant Damien McKeon, from the Cynon Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Members of the public have recently contacted us expressing concern about anti social behaviour of off-road bikers and the dangerous manner in which some of them are ridden.

"The bikes can also have a detrimental effect on our green areas where there is evidence of the land being damaged.

"Our concern as a neighbourhood policing team is that somebody could get seriously injured or worse and this is why we will continue to do these operations on a regular basis – to keep people safe and reduce anti social behaviour."

The Rhondda Cynon Taf Community Safety Partnership has plans to do a number of operations in the area and has already seized two bikes in Cwmbach.

The partnership has a dedicated team to deal with this issue made up of fully-trained drivers and vehicles that can be used on all terrains. They are often supported by CCTV officers who can gather evidence.

Phil Bevan, Head of the Community Safety Partnership, added: "This is an ongoing concern for us and we will continue to respond to it until offenders get the message that we will not tolerate the illegal and anti-social use of off-road vehicles in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

"Our residents do not like it and neither do we. It ruins the appearance of open spaces and mountain sides and ruins the enjoyment of the countryside for others.

"There are places where riders can enjoy such activities safely and legally and we urge them to take advantage of those, rather than run the risk of enforcement action, and the seizure of your vehicle, by riding illegally in RCT."

Those with concerns about the illegal and anti-social use of off-road vehicles can contact the Off Road Team via telephone or text on 07747 485770.

MURDER INVESTIGATION IN RHOOSE

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Monday 17 May 2010

South Wales Police officers, who are investigating the murder of an 11 year old child, are now releasing his name.

His name is Glen Freaney from the Penarth area in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Officers were called on Saturday 15th May 2010 by friends and family who were concerned about the safety of Glen.

Within 3 minutes, officers attended the Sky Plaza Hotel, Port Road, Rhoose where Glen had been residing with his mother.

Sadly, when officers arrived at their hotel room, the victim was dead.

A post mortem examination took place yesterday.

The last confirmed sighting of Glen alive was on Thursday and police believe that Glen probably died on Thursday 13 May or Friday 14 May 2010.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Jones of South Wales Police Major Crime Team said,

“This is a tragic murder of a young boy and I can confirm that it is domestic related.

“I would also like to reassure the public that we are not looking to trace any other person in connection with this incident.

“However, I would like to appeal to the public who may have witnessed Glen at the Sky Plaza Hotel in the last week, to contact us, as they may hold vital information.

“If you have been a resident at the hotel, have seen Glen in the last week or you believe you have information relevant to the investigation, please contact us on 01656 679 585 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Chief Superintendent Carl Davies, the Divisional Commander for the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend division said,

“I would like to give my condolences to Glen’s family and friends at what is a very sad time. It is especially heart breaking that the incident has involved somebody so young. This will no doubt be a huge shock to the local community. A thorough and professional investigation will continue.”

A 48 year old female has been charged with murder and appeared at Barry Magistrates Court this afternoon. She has been remanded.

A Major Incident Room has been set up now at Bridgend Police Station.

No further information is available at this stage.

Army of volunteers reducing crime in RCT

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

RESIDENTS are being urged to join an army of volunteers to help fight crime and keep Rhondda Cynon Taf safe.

A new system called Ringmaster 2000 has been purchased by the Rhondda Cynon Taf Community Safety Partnership and people are being encouraged to sign up to the scheme.

Ringmaster 2000 is a computer-based system that gives members free and instant crime information relating to the area where they live by text, e-mail, fax, or phone call.

It allows the partnership to engage with those who sign up in a quick and effective manner.

Information, such as details about bogus callers, anti-social behaviour, missing people, burglaries, car crime and other incidents can be sent as text or voice messages at the push of a button.

As well as sharing information quickly with those who are signed up to the scheme, it is hoped the information can then be passed on, from person to person, to help prevent further incidents and identify offenders.

People can sign up via www.safervalleys.org.uk, a website that also contains useful information and links from the Community Safety Partnership.

The site allows you to choose how you will receive the information, free of charge, and you can also stipulate during which times of the day to receive alerts.

Inspector Richard Erskine, who heads Community Safety across RCT on behalf of South Wales Police, said: "The community and particularly the Neighbourhood Watch and Ringmaster members are the eyes and ears of the police and we appreciate their on-going support.

"Ringmaster makes a significant contribution to making our communities safer and also provides reassurance to residents as it encourages people to be good neighbours.

"For South Wales Police it is an extra tool in our fight to reduce crime as it raises awareness among residents who armed with this information can take the necessary steps to prevent becoming victims themselves."

Several hundred people, including Neighbourhood Watch coordinators and local groups, are already members of Ringmaster but it is hoped more people including businesses will sign up.

Phil Bevan, Head of the Community Safety Partnership, said: "We know, via our work in communities and at PACT, that residents are keen to hear the latest information that relates to THEIR neighbourhood.

"Community messaging allows us to do that. We can raise awareness of events and initiatives and also send alerts if there is a particular crime trend, offender or issue that we feel residents and groups in a certain area need to be aware of.

"The potential for us to reach out and engage with a large proportion of our communities, via a simple and effective message, is huge.

"We hope people take advantage of the new service and, importantly, engage with us to tell us the kind of information they wish to receive."

Illegal vehicles seized in Pontypridd

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

MORE than one vehicle an hour was seized during a South Wales Police operation in Pontypridd.

Traffic officers spent the day on the Broadway with an automatic number plate recognition machine to identify uninsured drivers, untaxed vehicles and those without MOTs, after concerns had been raised by residents.

A total of eight vehicles were seized between 8.50am and 4pm on Wednesday, May 5, for document offences.

In addition, 13 drivers – nine men and four women - were given fixed penalty notices for not wearing seat belts.

Following this operation, the officers patrolled Nantgarw where anti social behaviour and motor vehicle nuisance have been identified as Pact priorities.

For more information on Pact in your area, log onto www.ourbobby.com

Over 500 Cannabis plants seized by officers

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

TWO police community support officers in Western BCU have been praised for their ability to sniff out crime which resulted in the discovery of an alleged cannabis farm.

PCSOs Chris Fincher and Helen James had been patrolling Mynddbach Common when their suspicions were aroused by a secluded cottage, and a distinctive smell. A search warrant was executed at the premises, which resulted in the discovery of an alleged drug farm with more than 580 plants.

PCSO Chris Fincher said "We were patrolling the common when we noticed a strong smell very similar to cannabis and at the same time saw the secluded cottage with it’s blacked out windows and curtains drawn."

PCSO Helen James said “We will continue to work closely with the community and partners to tackle drug related crime.”

A 29-year-old man and 15-year- old youth appeared in court charged with offences relating to the production of cannabis plants, and were remanded in custody.

If you have any information on drug related crime please call Crimestopers on 0800 555 111

Rhondda Community Family Day hailed a success

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THE first ever Partnerships and Communities Together (PACT) Open Day in the Rhondda has been hailed a success with up to 4,000 people attending the event.

The Rhondda Community Family Day held on Sunday, May 9th was organised by South Wales Police in partnership with the community.

Gates at Greenwood Park, Ferndale, opened at midday for the free five-hour event which included live music, more than 40 different stalls, a small funfair, and a football tournament.

Local officers were on hand to show how crimes are solved using fingerprint technology while the police horses, motorbikes, museum stand and search unit proved big attractions.

The day culminated in a display from the South Wales Police Armed Response Vehicle Unit supported by the dog section.

Free shuttle buses for visitors were kindly provided by Rhondda Life, Penrhys Partnership, Penygraig Communities First, CwmNi, Edwards Coaches, and Alva’a Taxis.

A charity auction and raffle were also held to raise money for Rhondda Breast Friends.

Rhondda Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Mike Jones, who co-ordinated the event, said: “It was an opportunity for people to meet their local officers in an informal way and it highlighted that South Wales Police are very much part of the local community.

“I am delighted that the good people of the Rhondda, and further afield, had the opportunity to enjoy a day with us and I hope it reassured them about the commitment of South Wales Police, and the PACT process, to improve their quality of life and how hard we are working for them.

“We could not have organised this event without the help of our partners, including the Porth Chamber of Trade, and I am truly grateful to all those who helped make the day such a tremendous success.”

Please check www.ourbobby.com in the next few days for more photographs of the day!

Commendations for Valleys police

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 7 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE officers in Merthyr and Rhondda Cynon Taff were officially recognised at a special event held recently.

The Divisional Commendation Awards took place at Gartholwg Lifelong Learning Centre, Church Village, where more than 50 certificates were presented by Chief Superintendent Kevin O’Neill.

Officers were commended for exceptional professionalism, compassion and dedication when confronted with a number of situations, dealing with incidents whether on or off duty and for resolving and detecting crime.

Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Kevin ‘Neill said: "As the new divisional commander for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff it was my first Commendation Award Ceremony and it was great to recognise the excellent work that our officers are doing for the public.

"I am confident that the stories of dedication and commitment that we heard at the award ceremony are just examples of what is actually taking place on a daily basis across Northern BCU.

"We are working as a team, with our partners, with our communities, to ensure the area remains a safe place to live, work and visit.

"I can reassure the public that we will keep up the high standards that have been set and continue the good work that is being carried out to keep our communities safe."

Here is a selection of the commendations from Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff:

Cynon Neighbourhood Policing Team including Ps McKeon, Pc Evans, Pc James and Pc Gwyther.
The team was commended for its proactive policing that led to the recovery and seizure of ¾ kilo of cocaine worth around £39,000 and the conviction of the offender.
This was the biggest seizure of its kind in the Cynon Valley.

Pc Derryn Harding and Beth Harding.
The couple were shopping at Tesco in Merthyr Tydfil when there was a serious road traffic collision. Pc Harding, who was off-duty, took control of the scene, preserving crucial evidence while the emergency services were en route, and his wife gave first aid to the injured pedestrian.

Ps Sion Parker, Pc Paul Coulthard, Pc Samantha Clair Griffiths, DC Phil Simmonds, and PCSO Natasha Foster.
The Rhondda-based officers were commended for their investigation into a suspected organised crime group in Treherbert which led to a cannabis factory being found at the disused Castle Public House, the seizure of £750,000 worth of drugs, and the arrest of two men who had concealed themselves in a wall cavity.

Theft of chickens: Police appeal for information

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 6 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE in the Rhondda are investigating the theft of 40 chickens from an allotment.

The chickens were stolen when their coup at the allotments in Upper Terrace, Ferndale, was broken into sometime overnight between Sunday and Monday.

Sergeant Cathy Wide, from the Rhondda Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "The break-in was reported to us on Tuesday afternoon and it is believed to have taken place sometime between 7pm on Sunday and 8am on Monday.

"This is not the first time chickens have been stolen from the allotments and it is obviously distressing for the owners.

"It must be very difficult to steal 40 chickens, and store them somewhere, without anybody noticing or hearing something,

"Officers have been out making enquiries to trace the chickens and find out who is responsible.

"There is no doubt there are people in the community who are aware of this incident and I would urge anyone with information to contact South Wales Police so the chickens can be returned to their coup," added Sgt Wide, who is based at Ferndale Police Station.

If you can help please call South Wales Police on 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or contact your nearest police station.

Copper thefts in RCT: Police warn of dangers

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 6 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THIEVES are risking their lives and innocent members of the public by stealing copper wiring, police in Rhondda Cynon Taff are warning.

In the last week £4,000 worth of copper has been stolen from an electricity substation in the Taff and an earlier attempt was made in the Cynon Valley to steal overhead copper cables.

Police are warning those responsible that they are not only exposing themselves, and others, to the risk of fatal injuries but the disruption to power supplies could also have serious consequences for the public and emergency services.

The latest incident happened in the early hours of today (Wednesday, May 5) at a farm above Cilfyndd Common, Pontypridd, where someone cut down a pole at a substation and stole copper wiring worth an estimated £4,000.

A second incident occurred at Tirfounder Fields in Aberdare, at around 11pm on Friday, April 30, where a wooden pole of an overhead power line was cut down causing considerable damage, and resulting in a power cut to a number of nearby homes. However, nothing was stolen on this occasion.

Engineers attended both incidents to make the areas safe and enquiries are on-going to trace those responsible.

Chief Inspector Keith Prosser, from South Wales Police, said: "Cutting into any piping where mains services are connected is very dangerous.

"People who carry out this type of crime expose themselves and others to possible serious injury, or even worse."

If you see any suspicious activity of people loading metal or copper piping into a vehicle then please call the police immediately.
Anyone who is offered copper in suspicious circumstances, or has information about either of these crimes, is urged to contact South Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Fire, block of flats, Cardiff

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 6 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police officers are currently at the scene of a fire at a block of flats in Cardiff.

Police were called after reports of an explosion at Lydstep Crescent, off Western Avenue, Cardiff at 12.42 today.

One man has died at the scene, no details regarding his identity are available at this stage

Around 20 people have been evacuated from the area. Police are working closely with the fire service and the local authority to look after those evacuated and to put in place measures to protect the scene in the event of an investigation.

Early indications are that the explosion is not of a suspicious nature.

Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby, Divisional Commander for Cardiff said, "This is a serious incident which has required a number of people to be moved from the area. However it is important that anyone planning to vote at the Gabalfa polling station continues to do so. The polling station and the surrounding area is completely unaffected by the fire."

A multi agency incident room has been set up in Cardiff. Anyone concerned about friends or relatives that have been evacuated or with any information about the cause of the fire can call 029 20 338460

Countdown to Rhondda Community Day

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 5 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THE countdown has begun to the first Partnerships and Communities Together (PACT) open day in the Rhondda Valley.

On Sunday, May 9 Greenwood Park in Ferndale will open its gates for the FREE event that has been organised by South Wales Police in partnership with the community.

Among the many attractions and activities are live music, including The Monophoncis, a display from the South Wales Police Armed Response Vehicle Unit supported by the dog section, a football tournament, and more than 40 different stalls.

Wrist bands will be available for parents to give to their children to help prevent them getting lost.

The wrist bands, which have been used at a number of events across South Wales, have been designed to cut down on the time a lost child spends separated from his or her parents or guardians.

The brightly coloured band includes a space for a mobile telephone number or other relevant details so if a child does become separated and is found, their parent or guardian can be contacted immediately.

Inspector Mike Jones, who is in charge of Neighbourhood Policing in the Rhondda, said: "The Rhondda Community Family Day will have something for everyone and it will be an occasion that the whole family can enjoy.

"It is also a fantastic way for people to informally meet their local police officers and find out a little more about the work they carry out.

"We could not have organised this event without the help of our partners, including the Porth Chamber of Trade, and this open day demonstrates the commitment of South Wales Police and the PACT process to improve quality of life for residents.

"Entry to the site is completely free of charge, and I would personally like to encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun".

As part of the open day, a charity auction and raffle are being held to raise money for Rhondda Breast Friends.

Visitors are advised to use shuttle buses which are being arranged to take and collect people to the open day. Transport has kindly been provided by Rhondda Life, Penrhys Partnership, Penygraig Communities First, CwmNi, Edwards Coaches, and Alva’a Taxis.

There will be drop-off and collection points in Maerdy, Ferndale, Tylorstown, Pontygwaith, Penrhys, Wattstown, Gilfach, Tonyrefail, Trebanog, Cymmer, Treherbert, Treorchy, Llwynpia, and Ystrad.

Disabled parking will be available in Oaklands Industrial Estate and also at the Ferndale Rugby Club end of Greenwood Park.

The event starts at midday until 5pm. Please note this in an alcohol-free zone.

38 fewer crime victims every day in South Wales

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 4 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Crime across South Wales continues to fall significantly, according to the recent report published by the Home Office.

The report highlights levels of recorded crime across Wales and England for the 12 months up to December 2009, and shows that overall, South Wales Police is rated as the sixth best performing force nationally, and the number one force in Wales, for reducing crime.

On average there were 38 fewer victims of crime every day when compared to the same period the year before.

Crime types across the board were reduced. Violent crime was cut by 10.5 per cent meaning there were over 2500 fewer victims; vehicle crime, including thefts of and from vehicles, reduced collectively by 4,420 offences; dwelling burglaries were reduced by 1,108 offences; and there were 175 fewer victims of sexual offences.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said:

“This is excellent news for South Wales Police and the communities we serve. We have played a significant role – along with our partners and the public in cutting crime to levels which are unprecedented in the region since the introduction of National Crime Recording Standards in April 2002.

“I am also delighted by the fact that our crime detection rates are continuing to increase across the spectrum of crime and particularly in some of the more serious offences categories such as robbery, sexual offences, and violence against the person. This reflects our professional approach to crime investigation against a backdrop of reducing crime.”
With crime rates decreasing, and detection rates increasing, the continuing challenge for South Wales Police is to address public perception.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said:

“The fact that public perception and confidence in the police does not reflect performance in some of the areas where we can evidence significant success, is frustrating, and a challenge for us all.

“It places huge and continued importance on effective public engagement for our organisation and for our partners. We are committed to positive change, and by that I mean that our priority is finding out exactly what the needs and the expectations of our communities are upon the service, and how best to meet them. This premise, of putting the public at the centre of everything we do, underpins our plans for the next five years.

“We need to maximise accessibility to the service as we want as many people as possible to engage with us at a local level and to utilise the opportunities presented to them though our consultation activities such as PACT meetings and street surgeries. This will help ensure our neighbourhood teams set the policing priorities that matter most. We are also looking at innovative ways of reporting back to those people to highlight what we have done in their area to tackle the issues raised.

"We are, and will continue to work very hard with our partners to ensure our communities feel safe and have confidence in the service we deliver.”

Unexplained Death, Swansea: Police Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 4 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police in Swansea are continuing to investigate the unexplained death of a man who was found in a ground floor flat at Hanover Street on Saturday 1st May 2010

Offices have confirmed the identity of the man as being 49 year old Paul Anthony Thomas.

It is believed that the deceased originates from the Llanelli area and moved to Swansea some years ago, where he lived at addresses in the city centre. He has been described as being a “loner” and a very private person.

Officers are trying to trace his last known movements and are appealing to anyone who knows him or has seen him since the beginning of March to come forward.

Police have released a photograph of Mr Thomas which was taken 2004 in an attempt to jog people’s memories.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Davies who is leading the investigation said

“From our extensive enquires we have established that the deceased is Paul Thomas, and we are now in the process of tracing his movements since the beginning of March.”

“Paul used to live in the Llanelli area and moved to Swansea a few years ago, he was a very much a private individual who kept himself to himself.

“I am appealing to anyone whether it be family friends or associates, who might have seen Paul during the early part of March to come forward”

Anyone with information should contact police in Swansea on101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Unexplained Death Mountain Ash: Police Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Friday 30 April 2010

South Wales Police is investigating the unexplained death of a man in Mountain Ash and appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Michael Hayes, 60 years old, was found collapsed in Jeffrey Street, Mountain Ash, and police were made aware at around 5am on Thursday 29 April 2010.

Mr Hayes was taken to Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances of the death which is being treated as unexplained at this stage.

South Wales Police Detective Superintendent Paul Burke said,

“Yesterday, we appealed through the media for two people to come forward so that we can eliminate them from our enquiries. This has been done now and we are grateful for those people coming forward.

“We are now appealing for other people to contact us, to help us with our enquiries. We know that he was drinking with friends in The Harp pub in Mountain Ash on the night that he died and we ask that they contact us.

“The death is still being treated as unexplained at this stage and investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Aberdare Police Station via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police issue warning over fuel thefts

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Neath Port Talbot are issuing a warning to lorry drivers following a number of recent fuel thefts.

Thousands of litres of diesel has been stolen from lorries parked up in various lay-bys along the A465 between Hirwaun and Llandarcy.

The latest incident was reported at the weekend when 500 litres of diesel were siphoned from a heavy goods vehicle parked up alongside the northbound dual carriageway near Neath Abbey.

Police have stepped up patrols of the area and will be visiting the lay-bys during early evening to warn drivers about the risk of fuel theft.

Detective Inspector Dave Wright of Neath Port Talbot Police said: “We estimate that around 10,000 litres of diesel has been stolen from lorries parked up along the A465 in the past six months.

“These thefts are costing the transport companies thousands of pounds not only in lost fuel but in some cases, damage to their vehicles as well.

“This stolen diesel is inevitably being sold illegally so these crimes are fuelling criminal activity as well. We will not only target the fuel thieves but also anyone involved in the handling or sale of the fuel.”

Crime prevention surveys have been carried out at the sites and signs have been put up in the lay-bys as well as on the M4 matrix signs to warn drivers.

Patrols have been stepped up and police will be mounting high visibility and covert operations to catch and deter those responsible.

Detective Inspector Wright added: “People should be very suspicious of anyone who is selling diesel at cheaper rates and should contact police with any information they may have about the illegal sale of fuel.

“I would ask anyone who knows who is responsible for these thefts or involved in the handling of the stolen diesel to contact us.”

Vehicle owners and hauliers are urged to be aware of these recent thefts and are asked to follow these crime prevention tips:

Always use a locking petrol cap
Always try to park your vehicles in a lit area
Always secure your vehicles overnight, either in a secure business premise lock-up or a residential garage.
Of possible, do not leave your vehicle fully fuelled overnight.

Anyone with information should contact Neath Police Station on 01639 634300 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Distraction burglary in Neath: Police appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police in Neath Port Talbot are investigating a distraction burglary which happened in Neath at 3.20pm on Wednesday 28th April 2010.

The 89-year-old female victim had cash stolen from her flat at Llys Bartlett in Neath town centre after a man attended the address purporting to be a council worker.

The male suspect is described as white, aged in his late 30s, 6ft in height, of skinny build, clean shaven, with scruffy black hair. He wore a grey jumper which had a pattern on the front and black trousers.

At around 2.30pm on Wednesday afternoon a man was seen walking around the back of the premises.

House-to-house enquiries have been conducted in the area and police are visiting residents in the area to offer crime prevention advice.

Acting Detective Inspector Ricky Price of Neath Port Talbot CID said: “It is likely that this individual has visited other properties in the area so we want to hear from anyone who may have been approached in similar circumstances.

“This is an appalling crime against an elderly resident who is being supported by her family.

“I would appeal to anyone with information about the suspect or the person who was seen acting suspiciously just prior to this incident to come forward. The smallest piece of information may be of vital importance to the investigation.”

Police are advising residents to follow the Police Doorstep Code and not allow any strangers into their homes.

Distraction burglars use a variety of tactics to deceive the victim to get into their home to steal valuables. They often claim to be from the water board, electricity company, local council or other organisations and they will try to pressurise or confuse the person who answers the door.

When a stranger calls at your door, follow the Police Doorstep Code:

When someone unexpectedly calls at your door, take a look out of the window. If you do not recognise them, don’t open your door to them.
Make sure both your front and back doors are locked.
Attract the caller to a secure and locked window and display your Nominated Neighbour Scheme card (available from the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership).
If you do not have a card, ask them to post their details through your door but do not open your door.
If you don’t know them, ask them to leave.
If the person refuses to go away, ring South Wales Police immediately on 101 and report it to them. Try to provide a description of the person, vehicle or anything else suspicious.
Talk to your family and friends about this caller and consider talking to your neighbours about any suspicious activity just in case the same scam is tried on them.

Sergeant Tony Powe of the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership added: “We would encourage residents, especially the elderly, to be suspicious of callers to and to be aware of doorstep crime.

“I would also appeal to members of the community to look out for the more vulnerable members of society to ensure they are safe in their homes.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Arson to timber footbridge, Pencoed

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police are investigating a suspected arson attack on a timber footbridge at Coed Iestyn Woods in Pencoed. The incident occurred sometime overnight between Tuesday 27 April and the following morning.

Police Constable Samantha Beaumont of the Pencoed Neighbourhood Policing team said: “The footbridge was built by Woodbe of Tondu, which is a training organisation for adults with learning difficulties.

“I am appealing to public for any information with regard to this criminal damage.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact PC Sam Beaumont at Pencoed Police Station on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Operation To Combat Autocrime in Penarth

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Picture caption: PCSO Michelle Griffiths and PC Mark Gunn with the key-rings which will remind motorists to lock their cars

Neighbourhood Policing Teams across Penarth are acting to clamp down on autocrime across the sector. A special exercise under the name of operation cantabile has been developed both to reassure the public and to deter potential criminals.

Officers across the area will be carrying out high visibility patrols and checking the security measures taken by car owners to ensure the safety of their vehicles.

Penarth Neighbourhood Sergeant Julie Madoc said: “A number of thefts have been from insecure motor vehicles and we felt that something could be offered to their owners to remind them to lock their vehicles.

“We have secured funding for the production of special key rings which will remind motorists to lock their cars when leaving them unattended. The key rings flash on and off warning people to lock their vehicles and can be attached to the keys. They will be given to anyone identified as having a vulnerable vehicle to remind them to lock their car.

“Police officers and PCSOs will be patrolling throughout Penarth both on foot patrol and in marked patrol cars and they will distribute crime prevention leaflets and advice to members of the public.

“While car crime in general is at a very low level here in the Vale of Glamorgan I would urge motorists not to become complacent. Do not leave anything of value in your cars when they are parked and unattended. If you have a removable radio always take it with you when you leave your vehicle. You should always take any valuables with you and make sure all doors and windows are made secure before leaving your vehicle.”

Gower Rugby Challenge Cup : Gower Schools compete

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Photo features the Newton Primary School team, with local PCSO’s Andy and Neil, Chief Superintendent Mark Mathias, Dave Morgan (from Mid and West Wales Fire Service), and Ospreys Alun Wyn and Jamie.

Well Done Newton Primary School – Cup Winners 2010

Primary school pupils from across the Gower gathered in Dunvant Rugby Club on Wednesday 28th April 2010, for the second annual ‘Rugby Challenge Cup’. 14 teams were entered into the tournament which was organised by local PCSO’s Andy Brown and Neil Rees, with all players getting participation medals.

After a day of action packed rugby and many tries, the pupils from Newton Primary School were awarded the Cup by star players from the Ospreys Alun Wyn Jones and Jamie Nutbrown.

Jason Stagg (aged 11) from Pen Y Fro Primary School said “I had a fun day and it was good to score a try. The officers are very friendly and cool, and we are looking forward to playing again in next year’s competition. My school lost on the same pitch as last year, so next year I am going to ask PCSO Andy and PCSO Neil if we can play on another pitch.”

There were a number of prizes up for grabs, with each event programme having a unique number, and Nicholas Evans from Hendrefoilan Primary won a rugby ball, and Zac Healey from Llyn Derw won tickets to an Ospreys match.

PCSO Andy Brown said “The tournament was organised as a fun way for the local schools to get involved in neighbourhood policing, and has proved again to be very popular with the local community. Huge thanks are due to the pupils for making the day so successful, the many community partners involved, and to our friends at Dunvant Rugby Club for hosting.”

PCSO Neil Rees said “Neighbourhood policing is all about partnership working, and the tournament very much reflects this, with everybody working together to engage young people and provide an event that embraces the communities from across the Gower.”

Ospreys Player Development Officer Ben Rose said “It’s great to see a partnership approach towards getting more young people playing rugby, which at the Ospreys is something we are very keen to support.”

New police recruits put through their paces

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police has been putting its new recruits through their paces by testing them with real-life scenarios.

A total of 40 student police constables hit the streets of Merthyr Tydfil to face the public and deal with incidents they will be expected to attend once fully qualified,

During the recent two-day exercise in Cyfartha Retail Park, the students came up against a number of situations which included anti social behaviour, under-age drinkers, an illness in the street, a suspected car criminal, a burglary and shoplifting.

The scenarios are designed to test their communication skills, empathy skills, knowledge of law and policing, and how well they can perform under pressure, faced with any given situation, in front of the general public.

Divisional Commander for Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil, Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Kevin O’Neill said: "A number of the members of the public approached me while I was there and said they felt reassured that we were training our staff in a realistic environment. Some actually involved themselves in the scenarios."

The students that took part were in week 16 of their initial police training and next month they will leave the classroom to continue being tutored while on the job.

Chief Supt O’Neill added: "It is important that our student officers are fully-equipped and trained to deal with a full range of incidents in order to keep the people of Merthyr Tydfil and the rest of South Wales safe.

"We could not have staged the days without the co-operation of Cyfarthfa Retail Park, and the staff who work there, and I’m immensely grateful for their assistance."

South Wales Police would also like to thank members of the local community who volunteered to role play in the different scenarios

Those that took part were from the Public and Emergency Services (HND) course at Merthyr College, The Merthyr Tydfil Youth Inclusion Programme and People 1st an organisation that supports people with learning difficulties.

Rhondda Community Family Day

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THE Rhondda Valley has its first Partnerships and Communities Together (PACT) open day next month at Greenwood Park, Ferndale.

Entry is free and the gates open at midday on Sunday, May 9 until 5pm.

The variety of entertainment, refreshments, and arts and crafts on offer demonstrate the richness and cultural diversity to be found within this part of South Wales.

Visitors are encouraged to speak to the officers about their roles and the ever growing part they play in keeping our communities safe places to live, work and visit.

Inspector Mike Jones, who is in charge of Neighbourhood Policing in the Rhondda, said: “The Rhondda Community Family Day will have something for everyone and it will be an occasion that the whole family can enjoy.

“It is also a fantastic way for people to informally meet their local police officers and find out a little more about the work they carry out.

“We could not have organised this event without the help of our partners, including the Porth Chamber of Trade, and this open day demonstrates the commitment of South Wales Police and the PACT process to improve quality of life for residents.”

“Entry to the site is completely free of charge, and I would personally like to encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun”.

As part of the open day, a charity auction and raffle are being held to raise money for Rhondda Breast Friends.
Auction lots are a signed worn Pontypridd Rugby Shirt courtesy of Pontypridd RFC, a make over and photo shoot courtesy of Clive Hughes Photography and CF40 Hair Salon, Dunraven Street, Tonypandy and an overnight stay for two at the Vale Hotel Golf and Spa Resort including breakfast.

Place your sealed bid at the open day and the highest bidder will be announced at 4pm.

There will be drop-off and collection points in Maerdy, Ferndale, Tylorstown, Pontygwaith, Penrhys, Wattstown, Gilfach, Tonyrefail, Trebanog, Cymmer, Treherbert, Treorchy, Llwynpia, and Ystrad.

To find out more about PACT and for full details of the bus times log onto www.ourbobby.com.

On the website you will also find contact numbers of your local PCSO who can provide further information about the day and transport.

Pontypridd officer to represent UK in marathon

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

CRIMINALS in Pontypridd beware - one of the country’s speediest police officers is on patrol in the area.

Marathon runner Pc Kelly Morgan has been selected to take part in the European Marathon Championships after breaking into the top five of fastest police women in the UK.

“Running is something I do for pleasure but it also benefits me in my work,” she said.

Kelly, from Nelson, has been chosen to represent the UK Police Team at the European Marathon Championships in Prague next month.

All police forces in Europe take part and she is one of five runners chosen in the UK due to her recent finishing times, having completed last year’s London Marathon in 3 hours 11 minutes.

Kelly, a response officer covering the Taff area of South Wales Police, has also found that her speedy skills have come in handy when chasing suspected criminals.

“I had recently done a 20-mile race in Gloucester and then came into work for my 3pm shift,” said Kelly who often runs back and fore to work in Pontypridd in a bid to keep fit.

“Almost immediately a call came over the radio that a man had been threatening violence outside a house in Ynysbwl and was last seen running into the nearby woods.

“I ended up chasing him for about three quarters of a mile. I wasn’t expecting to be running quite so soon after the morning race but thankfully he was caught, arrested and charged.”

Siddiqi murder: Family statement

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The following statement is on behalf of the family of Aamir Siddiqi:

“The family of Aamir have expressed their sincere thanks and gratitude for all those that have been to visit them, sent sympathy cards and placed flowers at their home address. They have been overwhelmed by the support shown to them.

“The family is asking if the show of support could be continued through donations to WaterAid (www.wateraid.org). This is a charity that was dear to Aamir who wanted everyone to be cared for.

“This charity provides water, sanitation, hygiene and education to some of the world's poorest people.”

Police Appeal: M4 Fatal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Monday 26 April 2010

South Wales Police is continuing to appeal for witnesses to contact them following the fatal RTC on the M4 motorway.

The collision occurred on Friday 23 April 2010 just before 10am on the M4 westbound between junctions 34 and 35.

Two vehicles were involved – an articulated lorry and a white Ford Transit van.

A male driving the lorry, called Stephen Paul Jones, aged 51 and from the Kent area was pronounced dead at the scene.

If you saw the collision happening or saw the vehicles shortly before the collision, please contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at South Wales Police on tel: 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police Campaign Warns of Air Guns & Imitation Guns

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Don’t Put Yourself or Your Children at Risk

BEWARE of the dangers of air weapons and imitation guns, parents and members of the public are being warned as part of a new campaign as Summer approaches.

Officers are warning that air and imitation guns (which include ball bearing, BB guns) are not toys and can cause serious injuries and even kill.

Throughout the coming weeks officers will be visiting firearms and air weapon sellers, distributing 1,000 leaflets and also posters warning buyers of the laws and the dangers.

They will be asking retailers to give the advice leaflets to every customer buying an air weapon or imitation gun.

While the number of air weapon offences fell in the last year, the number of BB guns offences rose.

The majority of offences are for possessing a BB gun or air weapon in public.

Force-wide from April 2009 – April 2010 there were 28 Ball Bearing gun offences compared to 8 offences from April 2008 - April 2009.

Force-wide from April 2009 to April 2010, there were 24 air weapon offences compared to 40 offences from April 2008 to April 2009.

In the last year, Northern division comprising of Rhondda, Cynon, Taff and Merthyr, had the highest number of air weapons and Ball Bearing Guns (BB gun) offences, out of all the divisions across the force.

Detective Superintendent Mark Lynch said: “While the number of air weapon offences fell in the last year, the number of BB guns offences rose.

“The majority of offences are for possessing a BB gun or air weapon in public.
“The majority of those caught with a BB gun or air weapon don't intend to cause harm to an individual.

“But people must realise that air weapons and imitation guns can cause damage, serious injuries and they can kill - they are not toys to be bought for children as presents.

“Our message is - don’t put your children or yourself at risk, know the dangers, know the law.

“We want parents to work with us and talk to their children about the issues surrounding air and imitation weapons.

“With Summer approaching people may be tempted to go out into communities or out on our mountainsides and use air and imitation guns.

“But people must realise it is an offence to have air and imitation guns in a public place, without lawful authority or reasonable excuse and you can be arrested.

“Youths or adults carrying them in public can cause real alarm to residents who think they are real guns. This can trigger 999 calls and even a response by armed officers.

“We carefully assess the intelligence with every call to judge the threat level and will always take into account the ages of those involved.
"But the fact is, if there is a risk that there could be a real firearm, we have a duty to send specially trained armed officers to protect the public so there is a possibility young people could be faced with our armed response unit.

“In South Wales Police, we don’t have a serious level of gun crime, we don’t have a gun culture and we want to keep it this way.
“The majority of gun crimes are from the misuse of air weapons and ball bearing guns.

“If you own an air weapon or are considering buying one please remember the laws, for your safety and those in your community.”

In her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) Report Card, South Wales Police was graded ‘excellent’ for its achievements in suppressing gun crime.

Statistics
Force-wide, offences included:

From April 2008- April 2009 there were:

• 40 Air weapon offences
• 8 Ball Bearing gun offences
• 7 Imitation handgun offences
• 1 Other Imitation Firearm offence

From April 2009 – April 2010 there were:

• 24 Air weapon offences
• 28 Ball Bearing gun offences
• 2 Imitation handgun offences
• 1 Other Imitation Firearm offence

In Northern division (Rhondda, Cynon, Taff and Merthyr areas) offences included:
From April 2008 to April 2009:
• 12 Air weapon offences
• 5 Ball Bearing gun offences

From April 2009 – April 2010:
• 10 Air weapon offences
• 13 Ball Bearing gun offences

In Eastern division – (Cardiff area) offences included:

From April 2008 to April 2009:
• 16 Air weapon offences
• 2 Ball Bearing gun offences

From April 2009 to April 2010:
• 3 Air weapon offences
• 3 Ball Bearing gun offences

In Central division

In Bridgend area offences included:
From April 2008 to April 2009:
• 1 Air weapon offence
• 1 Ball Bearing gun offence

From April 2009 to April 2010:
• 1 Air weapon offences
• 3 Ball Bearing gun offences

In Vale of Glamorgan offences included:
From April 2008 to April 2009:
• 1 Air weapon offence
• 0 Ball Bearing gun offences

From April 2009 to April 2010:
• 2 Air weapon offences
• 6 Ball Bearing gun offences

In Western division offences included:
In Neath and Port Talbot area:
From April 2008 to April 2009:
• 4 Air weapon offences
• 0 Ball Bearing gun offences

From April 2009 to April 2010:
• 4 Air weapon offences
• 0 Ball Bearing gun offences

In Swansea area offences included:
From April 2008 to April 2009:

• 6 Air weapon offences
• 0 Ball Bearing gun offences

From April 2009 to April 2010:

• 4 Air weapon offences
• 3 Ball Bearing gun offences

FIREARMS FACTS

• It is an offence to possess an air weapon or imitation firearm in public without legal authority or reasonable excuse (a reasonable excuse may include someone possessing an air weapon or imitation firearm weapon in line with their professional duties, such as a farmer).

• People under the age of 18 may not purchase, hire, sell or let on hire any weapon or ammunition

• Those under the age of 18 may not be in possession of an air weapon at anytime unless supervised by a person who is aged 21 or over, or as part of a shooting club or gallery.

• Persons may possess an air weapon on private property with the consent of the owner. But, it is an offence for any person who is using an air weapon on private property to fire any missile beyond the boundaries of the premises. A maximum penalty for this offence is currently £1,000. For housing tenants permission has to be sought from the landowner.

23rd April 2010 - Serious RTC on the M4

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is currently in attendance at a serious road traffic collision on the M4 westbound between junctions 34 and 35 that occurred just before 10am.

A lorry has rolled down the motorway embankment and a van has overturned on the carriageway.

Emergency services are in attendance.

The M4 westbound between junctions 34 and 35 has been closed and police believe that it will be shut for the whole of the afternoon and during the rush hour later in the day and possibly into tonight. Police are advising motorists to use the Cardiff link road A4232 between junction 33 and Culverhouse Cross and A48 West Bridgend and Swansea.

A South Wales Police spokesman said,

"We are asking motorists to plan your route in advance so that you can safely avoid the area and take alternative routes."

Any witnesses with information is asked to contact the Roads Policing Unit on 02920 633 438, or 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officer attempts solo 450-mile charity bike ride

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

SOUTH Wales Police officer is attempting a solo bike ride from Cardiff Bay Police Station to Land’s End.

Dave Granville will cycle the 450 miles in 48 hours in a bid to raise money for two local charities.

Dave, who works in the Major Events department, said: “I will be using the national cycle network on a journey that is a few yards short of 450 miles.

“My plan is to do it non-stop, apart from essential stops and puncture repairs, which means I am targeting an average speed of 10mph.

“Some people have laughed at my plan and say I will never do it, but I guess I will just have to prove them wrong.”

All money raised will be split between LATCH – the Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity - and the Noah’s Ark Appeal.

“I have chosen the Noah’s Ark Appeal because the care it provides to children in the area is essential and also Latch because they have been amazing supporting my colleague Sue since her three year old daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia,” said the father-of-two.

“The charity has provided Sue and her family with a wide variety of support from accommodation at the hospital, to filling in forms, to offering counselling to parents and siblings.

“The ride will be tough and perhaps lonely at times, but I am determined to do it and raise as much money at possible for two worthy causes.”
Dave sets off on June 18^th.

For more information on Latch visit www.latchwales.org/what-we-do.php and to donate log onto www.justgiving.com/David-Granville

38 Less Crime Victims Every Day in South Wales

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

22 April 2010 : 11.00 hours

Crime across South Wales continues to fall significantly, according to today’s report published by the Home Office.

On average there were 38 fewer victims of crime every day when compared to the same period the year before.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said: “This is excellent news for South Wales Police and the communities we serve. We have played a significant role – along with our partners and the public in cutting crime to levels which are unprecedented in the region since the introduction of National Crime Recording Standards in April 2002.

With crime rates decreasing, and detection rates increasing, the continuing challenge for South Wales Police is to address public perception.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said: “The fact that public perception and confidence in the police does not reflect performance in some of the areas where we can evidence significant success, is frustrating, and a challenge for us all.

"We are, and will continue to work very hard with our partners to ensure our communities feel safe and have confidence in the service we deliver,” added Mr Vaughan.

Appeal for CCTV and vehicle info: Siddiqi murder

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police investigating the murder of 17-year-old Aamir Siddiqi on Sunday, April 11 are appealing for information on a distinctive vehicle.

The silver Volvo XC90 was seen driving around the Cathays and Roath areas of Cardiff that day and was later recovered in Adamsdown.

Officers know the car was stolen from the Newport area around 12 months ago and are appealing for information on its recent whereabouts, who has been driving it, and where it has been kept.

They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen this car on the day of Aamir’s death particularly around lunchtime.

Aamir died after being attacked at his family home in Ninian Road, Roath, Cardiff, at around 1.40pm on Sunday, April 11. He died of stab wounds.

Since his death, a team of approximately 60 police officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries including house to house, forensic examination, and viewing of CCTV footage.

Hundreds of hours of CCTV have already been recovered.

The investigation team are further appealing for anyone in the Roath and Cathays area who has private or business-use CCTV to contact them at the incident room in Cardiff Central Police Station.

The community is once again thanked for its support and co-operation during this on-going investigation.

Anyone with CCTV cameras in the relevant areas, information on the vehicle, or any other information which may assist the inquiry is asked to contact the incident room on 02920 571530 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

* Two men, aged 35 and 36, have been charged with the murder of Aamir Siddiqi and the attempt murder of his parents.

Ends.

Four Arrested in Million Pound Mobile Scam

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday 20th April 2010

Officers from South Wales Police have today arrested four people for their involvement in a mobile phone insurance scam which has netted between £4 and £5 million over a 5 year period. The Police have identified in excess of 300 victims to date.

Following a two year investigation, officers conducted simultaneous warrants at a business premises in the city centre together with other residential addresses in the Sketty, Manselton and Birchgrove areas.

All four persons, three men aged 43, 29 and 28, and a woman aged 25 are currently in custody at Swansea Police station.

The pre-planned operation involved more than 40 officers from the Western Division and the Economic Crime Unit of South Wales Police. The warrants are a result of many months of preparatory work by specialist officers who target organised crime groups.

Acting Detective Inspector Barrie McGregor of the Economic Crime Unit, said:

“This operation and the arrests are a significant part of our ongoing drive to actively target individuals who we believe are causing the greatest harm to our communities. The public can be reassured that we will do everything in our power to target and investigate those individuals involved in organised crime. We will utilise our expertise to secure their convictions and strip them of any assets they have gained through their involvement in crime”.

Neighbourhood policing teams across the division will be working to reassure communities and inform residents about the operation.

Superintendent Phil Davies, operational commander for Swansea, added: “Yet again this is an excellent example of how specialist officers are working hard behind the scenes to target those individuals who are intent in using their criminal activities in order to defraud innocent and vulnerable people”

“The message is simple, no one is above and beyond the law and anyone involved in serious organised crime will be targeted, and brought to justice”

Surprise Police Visit

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bethan Griffiths (aged 13) from Aberkenfig got a surprise visit from Traffic officers on Friday morning, in recognition for her help in promoting the ‘Making Every Contact Count’ booklets for officers and staff. She and her brother Sam (aged 8) feature on the front cover of the booklet with PC Laura Griffiths and PC Jason Beaumont.

Bethan was escorted VIP style by PC Laura and PC Jason in a police car to Penybont Primary School in Bridgend, for the next stage of the surprise. This time it was to surprise Sam, and the rest of the family were on hand including Dad Robert, Mum Leslie, Grandfather Gareth, Grandmother Pam, Brother Josh, Sister Louise, and little Alexis.

On arrival to the school Bethan was welcomed by Head Teacher Ben Blackall and South Wales Police Chief Constable Peter Vaughan for a very special assembly. Both Bethan and Sam were thanked by the Chief Constable for their help and were given some very cool souvenirs, getting rosettes, framed booklet covers, and a giant poster. Local school bobby PC John Stewart, a regular visitor to the school, even got an award from the Head Teacher.

The fun of the morning continued as the rest of the pupils got a close look at a police car and got to test its sirens.

Bethan said “I was very shocked when the police officers knocked my door and told me about the morning. I cannot believe the rest of the family managed to keep it secret from me. It was lots of fun getting a ride in the car and is very cool being featured on the booklet. I’m looking forward to telling all my friends.”

Dad Robert said “I’m very proud of the kids, and would really like to thank the school and the police for putting on such an exciting event.”

Head Teacher Mr Blackall said “As a school we are always looking to work with the local community, which very much includes the police. It was great to welcome the Chief Constable, and the pupils had fun learning about the police and the exciting help provided by Bethan and Sam. Our local officer PC Stewart is very popular with the pupils and continues to make a real difference to the school community.”

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said “We want to be the best at understanding and responding to our communities needs, and a big part of this is to make every contact count. I’m delighted to get the help of both Bethan and Sam in helping us promote this ethos, and really wanted to show our thanks and appreciation.”

Biggest Drugs Bust in Merthyr’s History

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Officers in Northern Division Make Biggest Drugs Bust in Merthyr’s History.

Officers in Northern division and the organised crime unit made one of the biggest drugs bust in Merthyr Tydfils history after they discovered cannabis resin estimated to be worth half a million pound.

Officers checked a car parked outside a KFC at Merthyr’s Cyfartha Retail park and found 1,200 9oz bars of cannabis resin – 240 in the rear passenger area of the car and 960 in the boot.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Jones head of Merthyr and RCT CID said:

This seizure of controlled drugs is the largest there has been in Merthyr Tydfil both in terms of quantity and value and sends a clear message that South Wales Police are determined to Keep South Wales Safe from organised crime.

Two men appeared in Aberdare Magistrates Court charged with conspiracy to supply drugs. Both have been remanded in custody until an appearance at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Friday April 23rd.

Murder of Ceri O’Sullivan, Merthyr, Police Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police are again appealing for witnesses in the investigation into the Murder of Ceri O’Sullivan at Ynysfach, Merthyr Tydfil.

The last confirmed sighting of Ceri was at 1130am on Easter Saturday (3rd April) Merthyr town centre, but police are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or spoken to him after that time.

Police are also appealing for anyone who may have seen a male person acting suspiciously ,on the public footpath that leads from Cae Penderyn, Ynysfach to Aberdare Road, Cyfarthfa retail park and the Swansea road area, on Easter Saturday or Easter Sunday to come forward.

South Wales Police DCI Mike Cranswick said:

“Although a person has been charged with the Murder of Ceri O’Sullivan, we still need the continued assistance of the public.

“The last confirmed sighting of Ceri was Easter Saturday, so I would ask people to think about their Easter weekend and their movements... Did you see or speak to Ceri? Did you see a man on Saturday 3rd or Sunday 4th April who may have looked out of character, possibly wearing blood stained clothes?

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the incident room at Mountain Ash Police station on 01443 743678 or call Crimestoppers anonymously

Two men charged with Aamir Siddiqi murder

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Sat, 17 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Saturday, April 17

Aamir Siddiqi murder: Two men charged

South Wales Police investigating the murder of 17-year-old Aamir Siddiqi have tonight charged two men with his murder.

The men, aged 35 and 36, have also been charged with the attempt murder of Aamir’s parents and will remain in custody to appear at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on Monday, April 19.

A third man, aged 39, who was also arrested in connection with Aamir's death has been released from custody and bailed pending further enquiries.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart McKenzie said: ""Aamir was a talented and much-loved young man who had his life ahead of him.
“I wish to thank all those who have contacted the incident room during the course of this investigation. The information we have received from the community has been invaluable for which I am extremely grateful.

"We would still appeal for anyone who has information on Aamir's death to contact the incident room at Cardiff Central Police Station on 02920 571 530 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby, Divisional Commander for Cardiff, added: "The thoughts of all those at South Wales Police remain with Aamir's family and friends in particular his parents, who were seriously injured during this horrific incident, and his sisters.

"During the past week there has been significant police presence in Roath, Cathays and other parts of our city. I therefore wish to thank the community for the support and co-operation they have shown the investigation team.

"Our officers are continuing to work closely with the community and support Aamir's family."

Ends.

Fatal Road Traffic Collision: Porthcawl

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Three of the victims from last night’s road traffic collision on the A4229 have been named.

They are:
Tommy March, 17, from Port Solent, Portsmouth, Hants
Tommy Elmes, 18, from Portsmouth
Danny Philbrow, 43, from Portsmouth

Details of the fourth victim will be issued when available.

A fifth man has been transferred to Morriston hospital where his condition is described as critical but stable.

Early indications are that the vehicle, a silver coloured Vauxhall Vectra has lost control, left the carriageway and collided with a tree.

South Wales Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses concerning this incident.

Any persons who may have information to assist the police in their investigation are requested to phone South Wales Police Roads Policing Unit on 029 20 633 438 or contact the non emergency number 101.

Fatal Road Traffic Collision: Porthcawl

16th April 2010

South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses concerning a road traffic collision which took place shortly before midnight last night (15 April) on the A4229 between the Grove Golf Club and Porthcawl.

As a result of the collision four men from the Hampshire area were fatally injured and a fifth male suffered serious but not life threatening injuries.

Early indications are that the vehicle, a silver coloured Vauxhall Vectra has lost control, left the carriageway and collided with a tree.

Further arrest: Aamir Siddiqi murder

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Friday, April 16

Aamir Siddiqi murder: Further arrest

South Wales Police investigating the murder of 17-year-old Aamir Siddiqi have this afternoon arrested a third man.

The 36-year-old was arrested in the Richmond Road area of Roath, Cardiff, at around 12.20pm on suspicion of murder and the attempt murder of Aamir’s parents.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Superintendent, Stuart McKenzie said: “We continue to make significant progress in this investigation but despite this progress, and the third arrest, we are still very much appealing for information.

“There are still people out there with information on this brutal murder and my message to them is simple – please come forward for Aamir, for his family and to ensure justice is done.”

Divisional Commander for Cardiff Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby added: “A football match held yesterday evening in honour of Aamir was extremely well-attended which shows how loved, respected and missed he is by family, friends, and the wider community.

“My sincere thanks to all those who have already spoken to officers – the support we are having from the community is fantastic and is very much appreciated. Please keep the information coming into the incident room.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Cardiff Central Police Station on 02920 571530 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

* Two other men arrested on Wednesday remain in custody.

PACT Open Day

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Community partners from across Rhondda have teamed up to provide the first Rhondda Community Family Day, in conjunction with PACT (Partnerships and Communities Together).

The fun filled family event will take place on Sunday 9th May 2010 at Greenwood Park, Taff Street, Ferndale from 12:00 - 17:00pm, and entry is free.

There will be something for all the family to enjoy, with a fun fair, bouncey castles, stalls, go-carts, and music entertainment. There will be a number of police related activities, with the horses and dogs in attendance, vintage police cars, and crime prevention displays by local officers. The police youth football team will also be running a tournament throughout the day.

So please make sure to come along for what is going to be a fantastic day! There will be shuttle buses running throughout the Rhondda area, so please check with your local officers for times and further deatils.

If you need further information or want to get involved please call into Porth Police Station or phone local PCSO Donna Williams on 07805301087.

Further appeal: Aamir Siddiqi murder

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police investigating the murder of 17-year-old Aamir Siddiqi are reappealing for information.

Two men aged 39 and 35 arrested yesterday afternoon in the Broadway area of Roath, Cardiff, remain in custody.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Superintendent, Stuart McKenzie said: “Yesterday’s arrests are a significant development in our investigation and the two men are being questioned in connection with the death of Aamir.

“We have had an excellent response to our appeal for information and we are receiving a lot of information from the community directly into the incident room and also through other routes such as house to house enquiries, at our mobile police station and via Facebook.

“I wish to thank all those who have already come forward – your assistance is invaluable. However, I am certain there are people out there with information who have not yet spoken to us.

“I am hoping that yesterday’s arrests will encourage more people to come forward.

“Despite these arrests we are still very much appealing for information. I would urge anyone who has information of the tragic death of Aamir to contact the incident room at Cardiff Central Police Station on 02920 571530 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Divisional Commander for Cardiff Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby said: “Our officers are continuing to work closely with the community and support Aamir’s family.

“In agreement with Aamir’s family, members of our Neighbourhood Policing Team will be attending a Tribute Football Match for Aamir at Heath Park later today offering reassurance to anyone who has concerns about what has taken place.

“This event demonstrates how well-loved Aamir was by his friends and his popularity within the community.”

Serious RTC in Pontypridd

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday 13 April 2010

South Wales Police is investigating a serious RTC that occurred at 21.30 hours on Wednesday 31st March 2010, at Broadway, Pontypridd at its junction with Windsor Road, opposite the Golden Age public house.

The collision occurred in the southbound lane and involved a grey coloured Renault Megane motor car and a 14 year old male pedestrian.

As a result of the collision, the pedestrian sustained serious head injuries and was conveyed to the University Hospital of Wales where his condition was critical. The Renault Megane failed to stop at the scene of the collision and was last seen being driven south along the road in the general direction of Glyntaff Interchange.

As a result of the collision, the vehicle sustained damage to its front nearside, debris from the vehicle has been recovered at the scene for forensic examination including the nearside mirror.

Sergeant Andy Stephens of the Roads Policing Unit said,

“We are appealing for any witnesses to this collision, or any persons that were at or around this scene at the time of the collision to come forward.

We are also appealing to the public to contact us if they know of a grey Renault Megane which has front nearside damage and a wing mirror missing.

“We would also appeal and encourage the driver of this vehicle to come forward to help in the enquiry.”

Anyone with information should contact the Roads Policing Unit at Gwaelod y Garth on 02920 222111, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police Appeal Cardiff Robbery

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wednesday, April 14 2010

SOUTH Wales Police is appealing for information on a robbery which occurred in Caerau, Cardiff, on Saturday, April 10.

At around 5.30pm a man was threatened in Heol Poyston and had his black and silver touch screen Sony U1I Satio mobile phone stolen by two men who made off in a shiny aqua blue coloured vehicle. The car was possibly a Mondeo or a Skoda with a registration number ending in TCJ and appeared to be new.

The suspects are described as follows:

Male one:
Black or mixed race appearance
Aged in his late 20s to early 30s.
About 6ft tall
Thick dark afro style hair that was short but messy.
A very thin nose and long neck described as scrawny with a prominent Adam’s apple.
He was wearing a light Blue Adidas v-neck top with three white stripes on each sleeve, and was wearing Grey Tracksuit Bottoms.
His eyes looked glazed.
He kept licking his lips and had a strong London accent.
He was a passenger in the car.

Male two:
Black
A fat round face
Aged in his late 20s to early 30s.
He was about 6ft 2 inches tall.
Short dark hair with distinctive tram lines on the side of his hair.
He had two gold front teeth, and was wearing a black puffer style jacket and light coloured jeans.
He had a Jamaican accent and was the driver of the vehicle.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dc Kath Morris at Fairwater CID on 02920 527248 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police Release Two New Photos of Missing Woman

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Friday 9 April 2010

South Wales Police is still appealing for information regarding the whereabouts of a woman who is missing from her home in Bridgend and are releasing two new pictures of her.

Ceri Roxanne Brocklebank, who also uses the surname of Burnell, aged 19, from Pencoed, Bridgend was last seen on 6 March 2010.

Police believe Ceri might be in the North of England because she had intended to travel there to seek employment.

Ceri is also in possession of a grey Alfa Romeo car, registration plate T973 AFG, and police have a confirmed sighting of the vehicle heading eastbound off the Severn Bridge on 6 March 2010 at 20.40 hours.

Ceri is described as white; 5ft 5" tall, having a Welsh accent, collar length brown straight hair, and of medium/stocky build.

Detective Inspector Sue Sidford of Bridgend Police Station said,

"Ceri has been missing for a long time now and still hasn’t contacted her family in Bridgend which is out of character for her.
"We’re appealing to the public to contact us if they have information and are also appealing to Ceri to contact us, or her family, to let us know she is safe.

"We believe Ceri is using a grey Alfa Romeo car and may also be in the company of an older man."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bridgend Police Station on tel: 101 or tel: 01656 655 555.

Murder of Aamir Siddiqi, Roath: Police Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wednesday, April 14 2010

South Wales Police investigating the murder of Aamir Siddiqi in Roath, Cardiff, are utilising the social networking site Facebook to appeal to potential witnesses.

Seventeen-year-old Aamir suffered multiple stab wounds at his family’s home in Ninian Road on Sunday 11th April after being attacked by two men.

His parents, aged 55 and 68, also suffered serious injuries during the attack but were subsequently discharged from hospital following treatment.

Police are continuing to appeal to anyone with information about the incident to come forward and have now posted their appeals on Facebook.

A video of a press conference held on Tuesday which contained appeals by Aamir’s family both in English and Urdu have also been posted on the website YouTube.

Divisional Commander for Cardiff, Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby, said: “We know that Aamir was a user of Facebook and there have been hundreds of tributes and messages left by his many friends, fellow students and general members of the public who have been touched by his tragic death.

“Facebook is a very powerful communication tool, especially among younger people, which we are utilising to push our appeals to as wide an audience as possible.

“Aamir’s family made an emotional appeal for the public to help find his killer which we have posted on the internet video site YouTube, again with the aim of reaching as many people as possible.

“I would like to thank the public for the excellent response we have received to our appeals so far and I would encourage anyone with information to come forward and contact the police as a matter of urgency.”

Police still wish to trace two men who were seen leaving the area shortly after the incident and heading towards Shirley Road.

Male one is described as being of Asian appearance, aged late 20s, of average height, stocky build. He had dark hair and was wearing dark clothing.

The second male is described as being of Asian appearance, aged early 20s, of slim build, 5ft 11ins in height. He was wearing a white jacket with a grey stripe down the sleeves.

As they were leaving the area they were seen to be pulling black-knitted balaclavas over their faces.

Officers want to hear from anyone who may have seen these men in the area or who saw or heard anything suspicious in the Ninian Road area on Sunday, April 11.

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact the Incident Room at Cardiff Central Police Station on 029 20 571530 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Facebook profile is Incident Room Cardiff

Monday, April 12 2010

South Wales Police can confirm that a young man murdered in the Roath area of Cardiff on Sunday, April 11 is 17-year-old Aamir Siddiqi.

Aamir died following an incident at his family’s home address in Ninian Road at around 1.40pm yesterday.

His parents, aged 55 and 68, also suffered serious injuries during the attack but were subsequently discharged from hospital following treatment.

A Home Office post-mortem examination is being carried out today but it is believed Aamir was stabbed with a bladed instrument during the incident.

A major incident room has been set up at Cardiff Central Police Station and the investigation is being led by Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart McKenzie.

Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart McKenzie said: “At around 1.40pm yesterday two masked men forced their way into a house in Ninian Road armed with a bladed weapon and attacked 17-year-old Aamir.

“Officers immediately attended the scene where they administered first aid while paramedics were en route to the house. Aamir was then taken by ambulance to the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, where he tragically died.

“This was a horrific incident witnessed by Aamir’s mother and father who were both injured in their attempts to come to their son’s assistance.
“Aamir was a talented young man from a loving family who had a bright future ahead of him.

“There is no motive at this stage as to why anyone would wish to harm Aaamir and extensive enquiries are underway to trace those responsible.

“I would also urge anyone with information about this incident to contact the incident room or Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Aamir’s family have been appointed family liaison officers to support them during the investigation and keep them fully updated on any developments.

Police still wish to trace two men who were seen leaving the area shortly after the incident and heading towards Shirley Road.

Male one is described as being of Asian appearance, aged late 20s, of average height, stocky build. He had dark hair and was wearing dark clothing.

The second male is described as being of Asian appearance, aged early 20s, of slim build, 5ft 11ins in height. He was wearing a white jacket with a grey stripe down the sleeves.

As they were leaving the area they were seen to be pulling black-knitted balaclavas over their faces.

Officers want to hear from anyone who may have seen these men in the area or who saw or heard anything suspicious in the Ninian Road area on Sunday, April 11.

Chief Superintendent Bob Tooby, Divisional Commander for Cardiff, said: “This was an extremely serious and unusual incident and I wish to reassure residents and the wider community that a full investigation is on-going to arrest those responsible.

“Aamir’s family and friends are understandably going through an unbelievably traumatic time and we at South Wales Police are doing all we can to support them.

“Incidents like this are extremely rare in Cardiff as they are across South Wales but extra patrols have already been put in place.”

The family of Aamir wish to release the following statement:
Aamir was passionate about sport and especially cricket, American football, and football.

He liked to commentate as well as participate

He was keen on current events and politics and wanted to do law and had a place at Cardiff University after his exams.

He was like his dad – he was a gentleman, kind and sensitive and really funny.

He was a unique character always ready to help anybody and anytime he was devoted to his family and friends.

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact the Incident Room at Cardiff Central Police Station on 029 20 571530 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.

Alcohol ban for Aberdare pub

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 8 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

AN Aberdare pub that had the largest amount of underage drinkers ever seen by officials has been banned from selling alcohol.

The Glandover Arms in Gadlys cannot sell alcohol, or undertake any other licensable activity such as entertainment, for the rest of the month, following the decision of the Licensing Committee,

The committe's decision on March 29 is the first time the license of a venue has been suspended for the sole purpose of punishing offences and sending a clear message to others that illegal activity will not be tolerated – and does present serious consequences.

It was made after committee members heard evidence from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and South Wales Police officers, who had joined forces to investigate the Glandover on behalf of communities being affected by the offending there.

Council Trading Standards officers at the hearing described how they decided to inspect the pub in October 2009 following complaints from the community and other venues about underage sales in the Glandover.

The number of underage drinkers found in the premises that evening were the highest officers had ever seen – of the 47 people interviewed, just four could prove they were 18 or over.

The majority of them admitted they had been sold alcohol without being asked for ID or had got someone else in the pub to buy their drinks for them.

Neighbourhood Policing Team officers confirmed to the committee that the situation that evening was one of the worse they had ever seen and also explained how previous advice and warnings had been given to the management of the Glandover, due to the offending taking place there.

The legal representative of License Holder David Lewis explained that the venue had “lost control” for a few months and did not dispute the level of offending uncovered that evening.

However, he also made it clear that previous test purchase operations carried out before and after that evening had led to the teenage volunteers being refused access to the building, showing a clear awareness of, and respect for, the law from the pub.

He further stated that the customer profile and operating practises at the Glandover had dramatically changed since that evening.

After hearing all evidence, the committee decided to suspend the license for 28 days, with immediate effect, meaning the premises is banned from selling alcohol from that time.

The committee also made it clear that, once reinstated, the license will have the following conditions;

• A personal license holder must be present at all times when the pub is open for the sale of alcohol.
• A Challenge 21 scheme, as promoted by Trading Standards, to be implemented.
• Record incidences where sale of alcohol and other age-restricted goods are refuse, with such refusals log being reviewed on a fortnightly basis.
• All bar and door staff to receive induction training concerning Challenge 21, production of ID, acceptable forms of ID, proxy sales of alcohol and a refusals log.
• Provision of CCTV

David Jones, Head of Community Protection at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said: “The huge majority of our licensed premises are aware of the responsibility they have to help us uphold the law, especially when it comes to preventing underage drinking via direct or proxy sales.

“We rely upon them to play a key role in addressing this issue and, as such, must always take appropriate enforcement action against those premises who do not deliver their responsibilities.

“This case had led to the suspension of the license of the Glandover, meaning it can’t sell alcohol. Full stop. This sends a clear message not only to the premises management, but also other premises that we will not tolerate underage sales.”

South Wales Police Inspector Steve Meek, based in the Cynon Valley, said: “The majority of our local pubs and bars are well run and cause no concern at all to us or the community they serve. But the Community Safety Partnership takes a really strong stance towards those few premises which contribute to crime, disorder or anti-social behaviour of any kind.

“We will not hesitate to take the strongest action to prevent the improper or irresponsible sale of alcohol. We work closely with licensees and will provide completely free advice and guidance to ensure each contributes positively to our local economy.

“But we want to send a strong and clear message to those who cannot or will not make sure their premises are up to the mark. If necessary, we will close you down.”

Seven arrested in drugs operation

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 8 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police has arrested seven people for their involvement in the possession and supply of drugs.
Following a nine-month surveillance operation, officers conducted simultaneous warrants at nine premises across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot on Wednesday night.
Class A, B and C drugs with a street value of approximately £250,000 have been recovered. All seven individuals, five men aged 43, 37, 34, 23 and 22, and two women aged 47 and 38, are currently in custody at police stations across South Wales.
The pre-planned operation involved more than 100 officers from the Western Division and Organised Crime Unit of South Wales Police. It followed months of preparatory work by specialist officers who target organised crime groups.
T/Detective Superintendent Steve Benson-Davidson, head of the Organised Crime Unit at South Wales Police, said: “This is a significant operation and the arrests are part of our ongoing drive to actively target individuals who we believe are causing the greatest harm to our communities.
“We will continue to investigate individuals involved in the trafficking of drugs and look to utilise every tool available to secure their convictions and strip them of any assets they have gained through their involvement in crime.
“It is our intention to use all our resources and skills to protect communities from the harm and misery drugs and prosecute those profiting from it.”
Neighbourhood policing teams across the division will be working to reassure communities and inform residents about the operation.
Superintendent Phil Davies, operational commander for Swansea, added: “This operation is an excellent example of how the police are constantly working to protect our communities from harm.
“Some of this work involves covert operations lasting many months which culminates in the highly visible police presence which the residents of Swansea and Neath Port Talbot may have seen over the past 24 hours.
“This has resulted in a number of individuals who are main players in the drugs scene being targeted and arrested.
“What this operation clearly demonstrates is that no-one is above the law and anyone involved in serious organised crime will be targeted.
“This operation will have a significant impact on the supply of controlled drugs and I would urge anyone who is concerned about any individuals affected by drugs to contact the National Drugs Helpline on 0800 77 66 00.”

South Wales Police & Gwent lawyers join forces

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 7 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wednesday 7 April 2010

South Wales Police and Gwent Police have joined forces to create a new joint legal services function.

Operating from April 1st, the new team will be expertly placed to advise both forces on a wide variety of legal matters. The new unit will come under the lead of Mr Gareth Madge, Director of Legal Services at South Wales Police. It will be based at both force’s headquarters in Bridgend (South Wales Police) and Croesyceiliog (Gwent Police).

Mr Madge explained:

“In 2008, a review of Gwent Police’s Legal Services function was completed. The review recommended the appointment of additional lawyers and staff. This would increase its in-house capacity and result in savings through reducing the need to out-source work.

“The review also concluded that these benefits could be further enhanced by entering into collaboration with South Wales Police to create a joint unit thus providing additional expertise and resilience to both forces.”

The new look legal services team will provide legal support to both forces in three distinct business areas:

Corporate Support (which covers matters such as commercial contracts and employment law);

Operational Policing (areas covered include anti social behaviour orders, sex offender orders and policing powers);

Litigation (claims against the force for matters like wrongful arrests and work place accidents).

In addition advice and guidance on legal matters will be provided to both Police Authorities.

In a joint statement, the Chief Constable of Gwent Police, Mr Mick Giannassi and the Chief Constable of South Wales Police, Mr Peter Vaughan added:

“This is a great example of two Welsh police forces collaborating and, in doing so, business benefits will be delivered to both. It forms part of the broader Welsh Police Collaboration Programme as set out in the National Policing Plan for Wales as well as echoing Home Office policy.

“In particular, this is an exciting and positive development in the collaborative relationship between South Wales Police and Gwent Police and our respective Police Authorities and will enable the joint unit to provide the best legal support for the policing of our communities.”

The Chief Executive of South Wales Police Authority, Mr Alan Fry, and the Chief Executive of the Gwent Police Authority, Mrs Shelley Bosson said:

“Both Police Authorities fully support their respective Chief Constables in this initiative as we are committed to ensuring the most cost effective delivery of all aspects of our policing services at a time when budgets are being squeezed.”

Beware of Boiler Room Scams

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 7 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police are warning the public not to fall victim to unscrupulous callers who use high pressure telephone sales techniques to get you to invest in schemes often offering extraordinarily high returns.

These are known as Boiler Room scams. They often feature outrageous promises of extraordinarily high profit at little or no risk and can, therefore, be linked to High Yield Investment Schemes.

Detective Sergeant Gareth Morgan of Bridgend CID said: “These fraudsters are usually well spoken and knowledgeable. They are also persistent. They might call their victim several times with offers of discounts on stocks in small overseas companies, or shares in a firm that is about to float. Boiler rooms make their money in one of two ways. They might simply take your money and walk away. Or they might sell you shares, but at vastly inflated prices and with exorbitant dealing charges.

“Boiler room sales people want fast action before you have a chance to develop second thoughts or consult a professional for advice. The simple rule of investing is that the higher the possible profit, the higher the risk. If anyone claims that a high yield investment has no risk, do not believe them.

“Remember this – When you are hounded by high pressure sales techniques on the telephone or via the internet just hang up. Do not make an immediate decision. Get written information about the firm, the sales person, and the investment.

Do not part with your money until you have sought out professional advice from a lawyer, accountant or broker. One of the easiest ways of spotting these scams is that they always offer returns that could never be obtained through legitimate investment procedures – not now, not tomorrow, not ever.

“Scams often have similar features that may alert you to the fact that they are not genuine: If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.”

City of London Police is responsible for coordinating Operation Archway, the national intelligence reporting system for boiler room fraud. If you have information about a possible boiler room fraud please email them at operationarchway@city-of-london.pnn.police.uk or alternatively post them to City of London Police, Operation Archway, 21 New Street, London, EC2M 4TP.

Aberdare fire: Police appeal for witnesses

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 7 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is investigating criminal damage to a vacant property in Aberdare.

The fire in Brynhyfryd, Cwmaman, was reported to police at around 12.30am on Tuesday, April 6.

The blaze, which damaged the letter box, was extinguished by a neighbour using a bucket of water.

Neighbourhood officers have been carrying out house to house enquiries while scenes of crime officers are examining the scene.

Detective Inspector Phil Camm, from Cynon CID, said: “Thank to the quick thinking actions of local residents the fire was put out quickly and fortunately nobody was injured.

“However it is being treated as arson and would appeal for anyone with information to contact us.

“CCTV footage from the area is due to be checked but in the meantime I would ask anyone with witnessed suspicious behaviour in the area late on Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday to contact Aberdare CID on 01685 724284 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Ends.

Attempt robbery Cardiff: Police appeal for witness

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 7 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE in Cardiff are investigating an attempt robbery which occurred in the Pentwyn area of the city.
A 60-year-old man was stationary in his car on Bryn Celyn Road at around 12.20am on Sunday, April 4 when someone reached in through the window, opened the passenger door of his car and grabbed him.The driver then accelerated away from the scene.
The male suspect is described as:
- white
- approximately 20 years old
- 5ft 9in tall
- of stocky build:
- and was wearing a green or grey Parker style jacket which had fur around the hood.
He was holding a knife which is thought to be around six inches long with black tape wrapped around the handle.
Anyone with information about the suspect or the knife involved in this crime to contact Rumney CID Rumney CID on 029 2077 4233 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Robbery at Hirwaun betting shop: Police appeal for

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 7 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE in the Cynon Valley are investigating an armed robbery at a betting office on Thursday, April 1.

A man entered the Ladbrokes, High Street, Hirwaun, at around 10.20am, armed with a knife demanding cash from a female member of staff.

He is described as white, thin, in his early 20s, with dark hair.

He was wearing a scarf, a green hooded top with a black peaked cap under the hood, fingerless gloves, and was carrying a rucksack.

Police are keen to hear from anyone who saw a man in the area matching this description and also the occupants of a silver car seen close to the betting office shortly after the robbery. It is believed the car might have been a Citroen or Renault.

A quantity of cash was stolen.

Detective Inspector Phil Camm, from Cynon CID, said: “This incident lasted around two minutes and although the woman was not threatened or thankfully injured, this was an extremely frightening experience for her.

“We have seized CCTV images and scenes of crimes officers are examining the shop for any evidence that might lead us to the culprit. Officers are also carrying house to house enquiries.

“Hirwaun is a small community and there will be people out there with knowledge of who is responsible – I would urge anyone with information to speak to us in confidence

“I wish to reassure residents that South Wales Police is carrying out a full investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Aberdare CID on 01685 724284 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police respond to parking concerns

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 7 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

SOUTH Wales Police is responding to complaints from residents in one part of Pontypridd about parking.

During recent PACT meetings in Ynysbwl the community has raised concerns about motorists parking on the single yellow line during restricted hours in Robert Street.

Now the Ynysbwl Neighbourhood Policing Team is taking action by placing warning letters on offending vehicles.

Sergeant Ben Rowe said: “We would like to remind residents that parking on the yellow line within the restricted period is an offence.

“We are sympathetic to the fact that Ynysbwl was not built for the number of vehicles that are now on the road. However, the restrictions are in place for road safety and must be enforced to ensure road users and pedestrians are not put at undue risk.

“Over the coming months the Ynysbwl Neighbourhood Policing Team will be increasing patrols in Robert Street and £30 will be issued to any offending vehicles.

“I hope the community, particularly residents, will appreciate that we are giving this warning before we start issuing fixed penalty tickets.”

PACT is a monthly meeting designed to enable residents to come together and discuss local issues affecting the community.

As well as local community members also attending these meetings are the local Neighbouring Policing Team and Councillors.

Each month those at the meeting chose three priorities that can be tackled through the month to improve the community.

There is an opportunity for everyone to have a say and the priorities are chosen by the agreement of everyone. The priorities are tackled by the most appropriate partner, whether it is community members, councillor or the policing team. PACT welcomes all members of the community.

For more information about PACT in your area log onto www.ourbobby.com

Cardiff v Swansea : Saturday 3rd April

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 1 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff City v Swansea City Saturday April 3rd: Police Message and Travel Advice

South Wales Police is urging fans to enjoy the day ahead of the Cardiff City v Swansea City match at the Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday, April 3.
Officers have reassured fans, residents and businesses that plans are in place to ensure the day is policed efficiently and effectively.

Divisional Commander for Cardiff, Chief Superintendent Josh Jones said:

“We recognise this is a very important fixture for both clubs as once again they find themselves seeking promotion to the Premier League.

“It’s a local derby and we know how passionate fans are about this particular game.

“There will be a substantial police presence to ensure the safety of spectators and the wider community.

“We will be utilising our vast experience gained over the years in policing many major sporting events, including derby games, to ensure the day is run smoothly, and, most importantly, enjoyed by the fans.

“My message to anyone thinking about causing trouble is - don’t forget about the potential that your team may be promoted to the Premier League or play each other in the play-offs.

“If you come to this event and misbehave, we will have no hesitation in banning you, which means you may miss a very important fixture in May, or miss the likes of Liverpool or Manchester United visiting South Wales next season.”

The match kicks off at 5.20pm

As on a normal match day, there may be some congestion in the area of the Cardiff City Stadium before the kick off, which may build from around 4pm. Likewise there will be congestion at the conclusion of the game from about 7pm onwards.

Operation Atlanta: Seven defendants sentenced

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Seven men have been sentenced to a total of 48.5 years in prison at Cardiff and Merthyr Crown Courts as part of a police investigation that resulted in the seizure of over two and a half kilos of Heroin.

Operation Atlanta run by the Regional Task Force, Tarian and South Wales Police stopped over two kilos of heroin with a potential street value of up to £225,000 being sold on the streets of South Wales.

The drugs were seized in Cardiff, West Midlands and Gloucester.

The seizure and subsequent arrests of this Cardiff-based organised crime group were the result of months of painstaking work by the Regional Task Force, working in partnership with a number of police forces.

The final member of the group was sentenced today at Cardiff Crown Court

He is:
Matthew Keith Ramadam, 29, (06/10/1980) from Cardiff pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 3.5 years.

The six others members of the group were sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court earlier this month.

They are:
Ahmed Sair Zamen, 32, (23/05/1977) from Cardiff elected trial and was found guilty of conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 12 years and given a deportation order following his prison sentence.

Abdul Mannaf Wahid, 27, (02/0282) from Cardiff pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 10 years.

Shahin Abdul Wahid, 29, (09/10/1980) from Cardiff (brother of above) pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 8 years.

Nasim Nazir, 29, (10/01/1981) from Cardiff pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 5 years.

Christopher Harman, 29, (10/04/1980) from Barry pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 5 years at Merthyr Crown Court.

Mohammed Hassanyar, 33, (27/06/76) from Cardiff pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin. He was sentenced to 5 years.

Divisional Commander for Cardiff, Chief Superintendent Josh Jones said: “These sentences send a message to drug dealers that South Wales Police will deal with organised crime groups and it’s our full intention to protect communities from the harm and misery that these people intend to cause for their own profit.”

“The amount of heroin seized between October 2008 and January 2009 which these defendants were intending to sell across South Wales – was enough to supply at least 22,000 street deals.”

“But thanks to dedicated and painstaking investigative work these drugs never made it onto the streets.”

“In August 2008 the enforcement arm of operation Atlanta commenced with the aim of identifying all the organised crime group members and disrupting its activities.”

“Members were quickly identified including those who collected large quantities of money and those who were hands on in collecting, storing and distributing the drugs.

“In October 2008, Christopher Harman was stopped in the Gloucester area and was found to be in possession of 9ozs Heroin. January 2009 Nasim Nazir was stopped in the West Midlands area and Mohammed Hassanyar was stopped in Cardiff, each found in possession of one kilo of Heroin. Just under £20,000 in cash was recovered from Hassanyar's home address
“Detectives intervened and the couriers were arrested.

“The remaining members of the group were arrested in the following months after additional evidence had been obtained.”

Chief Superintendent Jones added: “The Wahid brothers and their associates thought they could traffic their drugs here but they were wrong.

“Both Wahid brothers who were the controlling influence in this conspiracy portrayed themselves not only as successful businessmen, running a letting agency called Regency Property Services in Crwys Road, Cardiff, which was a front for their criminal activities, but also upstanding members of the Asian Community, dressing in designer clothes and driving expensive cars.

“Ahmed Zamen was described as the trusted lieutenant of the brothers. Matthew Ramadam provided the safe house for the heroin, whilst Christopher Harman, Nazim Nasir and Mohammed Hassanyar were the couriers and gophers for the conspiracy.

“The Wahid brothers and their associates were quite sophisticated, well organised and dangerous. Their attempts to bring misery into the lives of our communities by pedalling drugs on the streets of Cardiff were thwarted by a dedicated investigative team. My message to anyone who thinks they can come to Cardiff to sell drugs is this – we will hunt you down, you will get a long custodial sentence and any money you have made through criminal activity will be taken off you.”

The Regional Asset Recovery team has carried out an investigation and that hearing will follow.

Background information:
In March 2002 The Regional Task Force was set up by three Welsh forces - Dyfed Powys, Gwent and South Wales to form Operation Tarian - an all Wales Task Force, to tackle Serious and Organised Crime.

The unit boasts a unique set up, that allows police to combat the problem of Class ‘A’ Drugs and Organised Crime Groups, but also combat drug abuse, crime, and those who have accumulated wealth through criminal activity.
Detective Chief Inspector Debbie Copper is the head of the Regional Task Force.

Serious Road Traffic Collision in Barry : Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Appeal for Witnesses: Serious Road Traffic Collision, A4055, Cardiff Road, Dinas Powys, Barry

South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious Road Traffic Collision that occurred at approximately 20:30hrs on Monday 29th March 2010 on the A4055 Cardiff Road, Dinas Powys, Barry.

A 22 yr old male was driving a white Ford Focus ST motor car, which contained a female front seat passenger, when the vehicle left the carriageway colliding with a tree.

South Wales Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact them.
The Police would like to speak to any person who witnessed the collision, or who stopped to provide assistance, or anyone who may have seen the vehicle being driven prior to the collision and who have not yet given their details.

The road was closed for approximately four and a half hours while police carried out initial investigations and recovered the vehicle.

South Wales Police would like to thank the people affected by the closure for their patience and understanding.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the South Wales Police Roads Policing Unit in Gwaelod y Garth, Cardiff on 029 20 571600
ext: 42 333 or ring ‘101’.

Sudden death in Cardiff shopping centre: Appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Police investigating the sudden death of a man in a Cardiff shopping centre are appealing for those who found him to come forward.

The 45-year-old man was found in a toilet cubicle in the Capitol Exchange, Queen Street, Cardiff, with fatal injuries at around 3pm on Tuesday, March 16.

It is not being treated as suspicious and officers are preparing a file of evidence for the coroner.

As part of this, officers wish to speak to two men who found the man and alerted staff at a nearby business to call the emergency services.

These men are asked to contact DC Anwar at Cardiff Bay CID by calling South Wales Police on 101 and asking for extension 34420.

High Yield Investment Schemes scams: Warning

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

These are known as Boiler Room scams. They often feature outrageous promises of extraordinarily high profit at little or no risk and can, therefore, be linked to High Yield Investment Schemes.

Detective Sergeant Gareth Morgan of Bridgend CID said: “These fraudsters are usually well spoken and knowledgeable. They are also persistent. They might call their victim several times with offers of discounts on stocks in small overseas companies, or shares in a firm that is about to float. Boiler rooms make their money in one of two ways. They might simply take your money and walk away. Or they might sell you shares, but at vastly inflated prices and with exorbitant dealing charges.

“Scams often have similar features that may alert you to the fact that they are not genuine: If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.”

City of London Police is responsible for coordinating Operation Archway, the national intelligence reporting system for boiler room fraud. If you have information about a possible boiler room fraud please email them at: operationarchway@city-of-london.pnn.police.uk or alternatively post them to City of London Police, Operation Archway, 21 New Street, London, EC2M 4TP.

Pontypridd Primary School vandalised:Police appeal

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

POLICE in Pontypridd are appealing for information about criminal damage that has occurred at a primary school.

During the evenings of Wednesday, March 17, Monday, March 22 and Tuesday, March 23 there have been issues in relation to youth annoyance and damage being caused to Cefn Primary School, Greenfield Avenue, Glyncoch.

This damage includes broken fencing, trees and shrubs that were planted by pupils being pulled out of the ground, and damage to garden ornaments which are designed for the children to play with.

PCSO Hywel Lewis, from the Pontypridd Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to request assistance from residents of Glyncoch in dealing with this issue by asking them to be vigilant and report any incidents of this nature to the police so it can be dealt with as quickly as possible.

“Along with an increased number of patrols it is vital that we have the co-operation of local residents to inform us when these youths are present and potentially causing damage as this amounts to a great deal of expense to the school and the local tax payer, not to mention undoing all the great work that the children have done in making their school and the environment a nicer place.”

PCSO Lewis can be contacted on 0780 530 1041.
To report any incidents please contact 101 for any non emergency incidents or 999 if a crime is taking place.

Fatal Road Traffic Collision, East Aberthaw

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses following a Fatal Road Traffic Collision that occurred at approximately 22:50 hours, on Sunday 28th March 2010, at Station Terrace East Aberthaw.

A male was driving a Gold Renault Laguna motor vehicle, which contained a female front seat passenger, when it left the carriageway colliding with a garden wall. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries at the scene.

South Wales Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact them. The road was quiet at the time of the collision. The Police would like to speak to any person who witnessed the collision, or who stopped to provide assistance, or anyone who may have seen the vehicle being driven prior to the collision and who have not yet given their details.

The road was closed for approximately 5 hours whilst police carried out initial investigations and recovered the vehicle. South Wales Police would like to thank the people affected by the closure for their patience and understanding.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the South Wales Police Roads Policing Unit in Gwaelod y Garth, Cardiff on 029 20 571600
ext: 42 333.

Attempted Robbery Swansea : Man Charged

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police in Swansea have charged an 18 year man with attempted robbery on a taxi driver following the incident at Roger Street; Treboeth during the early hours of Monday 22nd March

The man will appear at Swansea Magistrates Court today, Friday 26th March

Young Efforts Rewarded in High Sheriff awards

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Picture caption:

Far left, Chief Constable Peter Vaughan
Far right, High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan Mr Anthony Tal-Williams MBE, JP
Three centre, members of the Miskin Crime and Safety Partnership Group

Young people living in mid Glamorgan received cash rewards for positive contributions they have made to society at an event organised by the High Sheriff recently.

Among the winners was the Miskin Crime and Safety Partnership Junior Group, which received £500 for work it has done to help young people turn away from crime and anti social behaviour in favour of education.

The work the group did to help reduce crime also managed to scoop them the Overall Cup Winner Award for 2010.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan, who was at the event alongside the High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan to make the presentation, said:

“The group has forged strong links with the community and as a result has become well respected and liked for everything they have achieved.

“Under the guidance of the safety committee, which includes our very own Sergeant Stuart Williams, the group has become an effective force as they have adopted a mature and practical approach to engage effectively and on a level with other children, providing guidance about their situation,” he added.

The Junior Group also organised a Christmas concert for which they made and sold tickets, and promoted the event with flyers and publicity, to ensure it was a success and provided funding to help secure the future of the initiative.

The Youth Community Awards is in its second year, and took place at the building owned by main sponsors Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, who are based in Pencoed Technology Park in Bridgend.

Charity bags stolen: Three arrested in Pontyclun

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

THREE men have been arrested on suspicion of stealing charity clothing from outside homes in Pontyclun.

The men aged 23, 29 and 35 were arrested in the Heol Hendy area of the village at around mid-day today.

Officers have praised the observational skills of quick-thinking residents who contacted police about suspicious behaviour of a group of men and their vehicle.

Following a search of the area, three men were arrested on suspicion of theft and taken into custody.

Detective Sergeant Paul Latham, from Pontypridd CID, said: “The good people of Pontyclun are generous to give their unwanted clothing to charity and it’s despicable that people are taking advantage of their good nature.

“I would urge people who witness suspicious behaviour to contact us as soon as possible to give us the best chance of solving these crimes.”
The local Neighbourhood Policing Team is delivering leaflets in the area with crime prevention advice.

Anti Social Behaviour Operation In Merthyr

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A WEEK-LONG operation to tackle anti social behaviour has been launched today by Merthyr Tydfil Community Safety Partnership.

Operation Delta will involve members of different agencies including South Wales Police, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council, British Transport Police, and the Youth Outreach Service, working together to reduce anti-social behaviour.

This evening more than 60 representatives from the police, local authority, VOSA, licensing, trading standards, the fire service, youth workers and environmental health will be out in force in hotspots areas where residents have raised concerns.

Any intoxicated young people will be taken to a mobile station outside Tesco for social service and anti social behaviour order referrals. Parents will also be contacted.

Sergeant Richie Gardner, from South Wales Police, said: “The aim of the operation is to ensure that we as a partnership are in the right places at the right times to deal with all issues and send a clear message to all communities across Merthyr Tydfil that anti social behaviour will not be tolerated.

“We hope this reassures residents that Merthyr Tydfil Community Safer Partnership is committing to making the borough an ever better and an even safer place to live, work and visit.

“We have listened to concerns, often raised in PACT meetings, and this operation is all about improving quality of life for Merthyr residents.”

One of the first activities took place today with a truancy operation. A total of 25 truants were found and 21 of these were returned to school.

Operation Delta will also focus on abandoned vehicles, littering, noise, and begging.

Beverly Owen, Community Safety Manager at Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council, speaking on behalf of Merthyr’s Community Safety Partnership said:

“Merthyr Tydfil Community Safety Partnership is pleased to lead this week-long programme of partnership activities to tackle anti-social behaviour. Many organisations within the County Borough contribute positively to the partnership’s efforts to make communities safer on a weekly basis.

“This operation will re-enforce our ongoing efforts to communities, hopefully reassuring residents that anti-social behaviour is not acceptable and that appropriate action will be taken.’’

The week will be supported by the following agencies:

South Wales Police
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
British Transport Police
Education Welfare
Environmental Health
Youth Outreach
Youth Offending Service
Local Business
Safer Merthyr Tydfil
Registered Social Landlords
Dog Wardens
DVLA
North Glamorgan NHS
Local Health Board
Fire Service
Neighbourhood Watch
Communities First groups

Bridgend area PACT issues addressed

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In recent weeks Roads Policing officers and dog handlers have been working with Neighbourhood Policing Officers within Bridgend focussing on areas of concern identified from PACT meetings.

In the Porthcawl area police officers on West Road stopped ten vehicles and issued a mixture warning notices and endorsable Fixed Penalty Notices for excess speed.

On South Road 22 vehicles were also stopped and issued with warning notices for excess speed. On Bridgend Road a further eight tickets were issued for excess speed offences, the fastest being 52mph in a 30mph.

In the Bridgend sector PACT concerns regarding the anti social use of vehicles within the Bridgend Town Centre and Retail Park during the evening was addressed. Officers issued tickets for a range of offences including speeding, anti-social vehicle use such as erratic driving, sounding of horns and tinted windows, fog light and seat belt offences. In total, 47 tickets - a mixture warning notices and endorsable Fixed Penalty Notices were issued and one vehicle was seized.

Porthcawl Neighbourhood Inspector Alan James said: “We will be increasing patrols in these areas and where motorists are found to be committing traffic offences they will result in prosecution which could incur either a Fixed Penalty Notice or a summons to the local Magistrates Court.”

Bluetooth to help young people

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Safer Vale Partnership have designed an innovative campaign to raise awareness among young people on bulling has been launched by the Safer Vale Partnership working with the Communities First Partnerships.

The Safer Vale Partnership will be going into Bryn Hafern Comprehensive School on Thursday 25th April during their lunch break (13:10 – 13:50) and using Bluetooth wireless technology to transmit a message to mobile phones from a small transmitter.

The Safer Vale Partnership is made up of South Wales Police; Vale of Glamorgan Council; South Wales Fire and Rescue Service; Cardiff and Vale University Health Board; South Wales Probation Service and VCVS. This is a joint initiative between the Safer Vale Partnership and the Gibbonsdown & Court Communities First and Castleland Communities Fist.

Councillor Paul Church said: “This is the first of its kind using up-to-date technology. This campaign enables young people to receive relevant information quickly and easily”.

“We know that a significant number of young people are experiencing bullying. We also know that there are others who may not realise that they are being bullied, who need our support. We are hoping that by receiving this message young people will speak out about bullying”.

There are plans to run a number of campaigns this year using Bluetooth throughout the Vale of Glamorgan.

Background information:

Safer Vale is the community safety partnership for the Vale of Glamorgan area. The partners are: South Wales Police; Vale of Glamorgan Council; South Wales Fire and Rescue Service; Cardiff and Vale University Health Board; Welsh Assembly Government; Home Office; South Wales Probation Service; VCVS.

Safer Vale’s mission is to reduce the fear of crime by implementing a range of local and regional crime and disorder reduction projects. More details can be found at www.safervale.co.uk

The public can contact Safer Vale by calling the helpline on 01446 450200, or by writing to Safer Vale, Barry Fire Station, Port Road West, Barry, CF63 3AZ.

Maesteg Officers Take Up The Devizes Challenge

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Maesteg neighbourhood policing officers are taking to the water on Easter Saturday (3 April) to take part in the annual Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race.

The 125 mile endurance challenge begins in Devizes in Wiltshire and finishes in Westminster in Central London, the race follows the Kennet and Avon Canal for 52 miles then onto the non tidal river Thames for another 55 miles then finally onto the Tidal river Thames for the final 18 miles where it will finish near the houses of Parliament. The race is the longest non stop canoe race in the world.

Police constables Dai Rees and Mark Hunter will be paddling non-stop through the day and night only exiting the water in order to carry their kayak canoes past 77 locks. Sometimes this is just a matter of yards although it can be up to a mile.

Neither PC Rees nor PC Hunter have had much experience in this type of sport which make the gruelling challenge all the more daunting and they have been training for the past few weeks on the Brecon to Monmouth canal.

The neighbourhood officers will be raising funds for the Communications Base Centre at Llangynwyd Primary School which has two classes at the school, with a dedicated team of 6 staff members who support children aged between three and eleven years from the Maesteg and the surrounding areas who have difficulties in daily communication and Autism.

PC Rees said: “Funds raised will provide essential equipment at the school such as a light sensor therapy room which staff have been unable to complete because of a lack of funds, it is vital for these children to be given the best possible support which will allow them to return to the mainstream education system.

“We are also hoping that we will be able to work with students at the comprehensive school to encourage some of them to take up the challenge in 2011.”

Science Is Fun! initiative for young people

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

More than 160 pupils from six primary schools in South Wales have taken part in a Dwr Cymru Welsh Water event aimed at boosting interest in and understanding of science as part of National Science Week (15 – 19 March).

This is a ten day programme of science, engineering and technology events and activities across the UK aimed at people of all ages, which is now in its 17th year.

The children were able to take part in a wide range of indoor and outside activities which showed how different aspects of science apply to their everyday life.
Among the topics they were able to learn about were what happens to “flushed” water, woodland and pond ecosystems, recycling, healthy eating, ergonomics, fitness and finger printing and forensics.

The programme was hosted by Dwr Cymru at the Cog Moors Education centre near Dinas Powys as part of the company’s ‘Free For Schools’ education initiative. It brought together South Wales Police, the Forestry Commission, the Vale Council, Eco schools, E.B.P., and other individuals to provide a fun learning experience for children between six and 11 years old.

Members of the Penarth Neighbourhood Policing Team took part In the Science Week and were able to show the youngsters how finger prints and other forensic evidence is gathered when investigating a crime. Pupils were able to take their own finger prints and shoe prints and examine them under microscopes to see how they are all different.

Pupils from primary schools in Creigiau, Penygarth, Cefn Cribwr, Tonyrefail, Castellau and Pencoed visited the centre during the week.

PCSO Michelle Griffiths said: “Everyone was very interested to see how we take and examine fingerprints and other aspects of forensics. The pupils all took part and were keen to ask questions and learn more about what we did.”

Cog Moors Education Coordinator Julia Brice said: “This has been a valuable opportunity to bring together many agencies in partnership to provide a worthwhile free of charge learning experience for pupils of all ability. It’s also a great way to promote our own important messages about considering what should and should not be flushed down the toilet!

“Thanks to the contribution of providers such as South Wales Police, the event has been a big success.”

Restorative Justice For School in Kenfig Hill

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

An incident which occurred at Mynydd Cynffig Infants School, Kenfig Hill in January has been dealt with my means of ‘Restorative Justice’.

A storage shed was broken into at the school and property was removed. Following a successful Police investigation four local culprits were apprehended and the stolen property was later returned to the school.

After admitting to what they had done and on the request of the school a ‘Restorative Justice’ meeting was held which involving the Police, the school, the boys and their parents. It was agreed that the boys would carry out some work at the school as recompense for their actions.

They apologised to the Head Teacher of the school and set about carrying out chores on the school grounds over two days during the half-term holidays.
These included digging over and fertilizing the vegetable patch, cleaning drains, picking up litter and sweeping up leaves.

They were supervised by the local Pyle and Cornelly PCSOs who made sure that all the work was carried out properly and that the boys took their responsibilities seriously.

Head Teacher Amanda Stanford said “I was very pleased with the work the boys did over the half term and I feel ‘restorative justice’ is a good approach to use with young offenders.

“This is the second time that we as a school have chosen this route and we hope that we are continuing to ‘educate’ these youths to make the right choices in life and helping them to make the best of themselves”.

PC Steve Carpenter, the Porthcawl sector Schools Liaison Police Officer added: “This is the second occasion that restorative justice has been used to address criminal activity by young people in the school. It has been found to have a greater impact than putting offenders though the criminal justice system.

“The number of incidents reported to police by the school has dropped significantly since the start of the process and it is hoped that these young people will be able to repay their debt to the school during their own time under supervision of the local neighbourhood policing team and the schools caretaker.

“It certainly seemed like these boys had learned their lesson and they all said that they would not be repeating their behavior in future.”

Fatal Road Traffic Collision on Stormy Down

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Family tribute & Police Appeal

A 29 year old man who died following a collision on Monday 22 March, 2010, has been named as Paul Anthony Leach from the Bryntirion area of Bridgend.

His family has paid tribute to him and said: “Paul was a son, a brother and a father of two children and will be tragically missed by all. Paul was a ‘rock’ to the family and lived life to the max. Dearly missed by Paul’s step father and re-united with his father.

“We ask the media to respect our wishes and leave us alone to grieve as a family at such a sad time.”

South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision, which occurred at about 11.00pm, on the A48 at Stormy Down, between Bridgend and Pyle. It involved a dark coloured stretch Limousine vehicle travelling west towards Pyle.

Investigating officers are keen to speak to anyone driving along this section of the A48 at the relevant time, especially anyone who can recall seeing a male pedestrian walking east towards Bridgend, a short distance west of the speed camera.

Witnesses should contact the Road Policing Unit via 101, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or visit their local police station

A Bobby On The Beat

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Porthcawl East NPT PCSO Carl Westgate is a Bobby who is well and truly on the Beat!

Carl has launched an initiative which has given the term ‘Bobby on the Beat’ a brand new meaning. For Carl is a part time DJ and he has set up his own specialist equipment in a local youth club in Griffin Park, Porthcawl on a Thursday night where he teaches local youngsters how to mix music.

Bobby on the Beat has attracted an enthusiastic following with some 30 youngsters joining the initiative on day one.

Communities and Partnerships Chief Inspector, Steve Jones said: “These youngsters would normally have been wandering the streets of Porthcawl at risk of getting involved in anti social behaviour, underage drinking or other youth disorder.

“Instead Carl has got them actively focusing their minds on music matters. This is an excellent initiative that engages the youngsters in our community, involving them in positive activities.”

Anti Mobile Phone Driving Police Crack Down

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The four Welsh Police Forces, led by South Wales Police, in partnership with Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, the Welsh Assembly Government, and Road Safety Wales are launching the first All Wales Anti Mobile Phone Driving Campaign today(Tuesday 23rd March 2010) at the Aberavon Shopping Centre, Port Talbot.

JAG Communications retail store will also be supporting the campaign by giving 50% off all Bluetooth mobile phones and handsets for today only and Swansea City Football Player Joe Allan will also be present; showing his support.

Despite the recent law change where mobile phone driving results in three penalty points and a £60 fine, drivers in Wales are still persisting with this dangerous activity and breaking the law.

Police patrols to target mobile phone driving will increase across Welsh roads for the month of April to promote the safety message and raise awareness of the dangers and penalties amongst motorists.

T/Assistant Chief Constable Richard Lewis of South Wales Police will be attending today’s launch at the Aberavon Shopping Centre in Neath Port Talbot and said,

“The All Wales Anti Mobile Phone Driving Campaign is aimed at raising awareness amongst drivers about the real dangers involved when driving whilst using a mobile phone.

“When you’re using a mobile phone or handheld device at the wheel you’re distracted and your reactions will be affected. It only takes a momentary lapse in concentration before you could become the cause of a serious collision or be involved in a fatal road traffic collision.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve got the phone to your ear or you’re texting on your lap, research shows that it affects concentration and reduces hazard perception and reactions.

“Driving and mobile phones do not mix. Using a mobile phone whilst driving makes you four times more likely to have an accident and a phone call isn’t worth the risk.

“One of the five major contributory factors in all fatal and serious injury collisions nationally, involve the misuse of mobile phones by drivers.

“Penalties were increased in February 2007 to a minimum £60 fine and three points on your driving licence. If you are caught, you face being disqualified from driving and could end up in court with a £1500 fine and a prison sentence.”

“We want the use of a mobile phone at the wheel to be seen as just as reckless and socially unacceptable as drink driving and anyone caught using their mobile phone while driving will be prosecuted.”

“Our message to them is that it’s NOT safe at all. You run the risk of killing yourself, your passengers, and other innocent road users.”

“Research by the Department for Transport has shown that three quarters of people believe that drivers who use their mobile phone are needlessly risking their own and other people’s safety.

“In the South Wales Police force area alone, in 2008 there were 3316 people caught and issued with a fixed penalty notice for misuse of a mobile phone. In 2009, this increased to 3641 which shows it is an increasing danger on our roads.

“We are committed to educating drivers, however, let there be no mistake, we are also committed to enforcing this law rigorously and will be stepping up patrols to target this illegal activity during April.”

Ali Thomas, Leader of the Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council said,

"I am really pleased that this All Wales initiative to highlight the dangers of using mobile phones when driving is taking place in neath Port talbot. Our Road Safety team have worked closely with South Wales Police to lead on this initiative and I must thenk them for all the hard work that them for all the hard work that they have done to highlight this problem."

Figures for South Wales Police area:

2007: 2562 fixed penalty notices issues for the offence of misusing a mobile phone

2008: 3316 fixed penalty notices issues for the offence of misusing a mobile phone

2009: 3641 fixed penalty notices were issued

2010: 475 in the first two months

Appeal:Road Traffic Collision,Wellfield Road,Roath

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision that occurred at approximately 11.20pm Friday 5th March 2010 on Wellfield Road , Roath , Cardiff close to Barclays Bank.

A green Volvo being driven by a 32 year old man collided with a Kawasaki motorcycle being ridden by a 19 year old man and 17 year old male pillion passenger. Both were injured in the collision.

The rider sustained serious leg injuries and is presently at University Hospital, Heath,Cardiff.

South Wales Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact them. The road was quiet at the time of the collision. The Police would like to speak to any person who witnessed the collision or anyone who may have seen the either vehicle being driven prior to the collision and who have not yet given their details.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the South Wales Police Roads Policing Unit in Gwaelod-y Garth, Cardiff on 029 20633438.

Police Seminar Tackles Abusive Teen Relationships

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Over 300 young people aged 13 – 18 recently attended an educational seminar at the All Nations Church in Cardiff, designed to teach young people how to recognise the signs of dating violence, where they can seek help, and also highlight the consequences of acting in an abusive or violent way.

Research by the NSPCC recently uncovered that young people have shockingly tolerant views on the acceptability of violence in relationships and that it is surprisingly prevalent.

Although both sexes experience partner violence, the research shows that the impact of this is much greater for girls. A quarter of girls and 18 per cent of boys reported some form of physical violence, while nearly three quarters of girls reported some sort of emotional abuse in their relationships.

Backing these claims, 66% of the 300 children at the Cardiff event claimed that they knew someone who was currently in, or have been in a violent or abusive relationship.

Speaking out about her own experiences a young girl (who didn’t want to be identified) said:

“There were a couple of boys in my school who I enjoyed being with, and the way I saw it if I didn’t do what they told me to, they wouldn’t want me hanging around with them anymore. I didn’t have any self confidence at the time. But then they started forcing me to hit other girls, and told me if I didn’t they would hit me. Then one day I didn’t do what they told me, and they beat me so badly I could go to school. They took advantage of my vulnerability at the time. Those boys are now in prison for violence. Luckily I am not, but that’s because I got help. My family, YOS (Youth Offending Services) and teachers supported me and now finally I’m getting my life back on track.”

Addressing those in attendance at the event South Wales Police Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said:

“We know that if we are to successfully reduce incidents of abuse in teenage relationships, prevention is key.

“Working with the Welsh Assembly Government and other partner agencies we must ensure we are doing all we can, to equip young people with the knowledge to identify such behaviour, and also how and where they can seek help.

“But we also want to ensure that those who choose to act in an abusive or controlling manner understand the potential consequences of their actions.

“Teaching young people and challenging attitudes to what is acceptable and what is not will of course take time, but it is essential in ensuring that levels of violence and abuse decrease in South Wales.”

Childrens Commisioner for Wales Mr Keith Towler said:

It’s great to see that South Wales Police are openly discussing these issues with over 300 children and young people.

“Having open and honest discussions about abusive relationships is imperative if we want Wales’ children and young people to know that as a society we do not accept this kind of behaviour. It’s important that we make children and young people realise that they can challenge these situations, and that there are organisations available that can provide help and support.”

South Wales Police praised

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A joint investigation by the South Wales Police Anti Corruption Unit and the Serious and Organised Crime Agency has led to the arrest, charge and guilty verdict of three men who were sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Monday 22 March 2010.

The joint investigation began in January 2008, when David Lloyd, Phillip Jones and Christopher Barnett were arrested for corruption and conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office in the south Wales area.

David Lloyd, a retired Detective Constable, was working as a police staff member at the time of the alleged offences. He was dismissed following his arrest.

Phillip Jones, a retired Detective Chief Superintendent was not working for South Wales at the time of his arrest. He retired from South Wales Police on December 28 1997 and was working as a private investigator at the time.

Christopher Barnett had no connections to South Wales Police and was self-employed as a private investigator at the time of his arrest.

In August 2008, David Lloyd was charged with two offences of conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office and money laundering offences. Phillip Jones was charged with conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office and conspiracy to commit fraud. Christopher Barnett was charged with fraud offences.

These offences related to corruption and the unlawful disclosure of sensitive information. They were not connected to legacy issues but referred to current information and intelligence.

Both Phillip Jones and Christopher Barnett pleaded guilty to their offences.

David Lloyd pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office and conspiracy to commit fraud together with Phillip Jones. He pleaded not guilty to further charges of conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office and money laundering offences with another person. He was found guilty of these charges following a trial at Bristol Crown Court in February 2010.

David Lloyd, Phillip Jones and Christopher Barnett were sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Monday 22 March 2010. They received the following sentences:

David Lloyd, 55 years old, Penyfai, Bridgend received 48 months imprisonment.
Phillip Jones, 63 years old, Aberkenfig received 18 months imprisonment. Christopher Barnett, 37 years old, Vale of Glamorgan received a 12 months suspended sentence.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft of South Wales Police said,

"These individuals held positions of trust and responsibility within South Wales Police. They abused these positions and let both the public and their colleagues down. The vast majority of our staff work very hard to keep South Wales Safe and it is a shame that the actions of a few tarnish the professionalism of the organisation. Behaviour like this will not be tolerated, and I would like to reassure the public that Police officers and staff employed by South Wales Police can expect to be dealt with robustly if they break the law or engage in other misconduct.

"These convictions have been successful as a direct result of a protracted and highly complex investigation which demonstrates the Force's commitment to tirelessly pursue officers who fail to live up to the high standards that we set.

"South Wales Police is committed to dealing with misconduct committed by both serving and retired officers. This force will not hesitate to pursue corruption by police officers and staff and if a similar situation arose again we would adopt the same strong line."

The investigation was supervised by the Independent Complaints Commission, who has praised South Wales Police for its successful investigation.

IPCC Commissioner for Wales Tom Davies said: "The public in Wales and the vast majority of police officers will be appalled to have heard about the criminal activities of these two former police officers and reassured that they have been found guilty of their crimes.

"South Wales Police fully investigated the corrupt activities of these two criminals and successfully brought them to justice with sufficient evidence to convict them in court.

"The police referred this matter to the IPCC and I have nothing but praise for the excellent detective work of the detective chief inspector and staff in the SWP anti-corruption unit and the force's thorough investigation that led to today's sentencing in court.

"As IPCC Commissioner for Wales I am working closely with the integrity units of all four Welsh police forces and can reassure the public that the very few corrupt officers are fully investigated and brought to book."

Anti-social behaviour tackled with DVD

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A DVD to reduce and prevent youth related anti-social behaviour has been being launched in Merthyr Tydfil.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan and The First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, launched “I Didn’t Think,” at the Welsh Assembly Government Building in Merthyr on Thursday, March 18.

The DVD teaches children about the consequences of anti-social behaviour and will be taught within a lesson plan to primary school pupils across Wales as part of the All Wales School Liaison Core Programme.

Funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, the Home Office and four Welsh Police forces, the bilingual film follows the main character Ricky and explores the impact that his behaviour has on himself as the perpetrator, his family, and the wider community.

The DVD was devised by Bonnie Navarra, an anti social behaviour co-ordinator who is jointly employed by South Wales Police and Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council.

She said: “ Through our work with young people and parents we realised that a lot of people do not actually know what anti social behaviour is.

“This highlighted a need to re-educate the public on anti social behaviour and we decided there was no better place to start than in schools.

“The All Wales Antisocial Behaviour DVD is an important new tool in the drive to reduce and prevent youth related anti-social behaviour.”

First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “Anti-social behaviour can blight our communities, and it is essential that we all take responsibility and work together to stamp it out.

“This DVD has been created as part of a fantastic initiative which helps our children understand issues relevant to themselves and their communities, and aims to reduce crime and disorder by means of education.”

Sudden death in Riverside, Cardiff

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Wales Police is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of 52 year old Adrian Trigg from Riverside, Cardiff.

Mr Trigg was taken by ambulance to the University Hospital of Wales on Thursday 11th March where he remained until his death on Thursday 18th March.

Police are treating his death as sudden and unexplained.

HM Coroner has been informed.

Officers are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Rawden Place at around 21.00hours on 11 March 2010 to contact them on 101.

Murder of Richard Dyas: Two men charged

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

SOUTH Wales Police investigating the death of a Mountain Ash man have charged two men with murder.

The two men, both aged 18, are due to appear at Merthyr Magistrates’ Court this morning charged with the murder of Richard Dyas whose body was found at his home address in The Poplars, Mountain Ash on Friday, March 12.

Two other men aged 18 and 24, who were also arrested on suspicion of murder, have been released on police bail. Two men, aged 19 and 18, arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have also been released on bail.

Detectives still wish to speak to anyone who may be able to provide any information about the incident.

Anyone with information that might assist the investigation is asked to contact the incident room at Mountain Ash Police Station on 01443 743678 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police turn Green

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In a bid to reduce the rising tide of anti-social behaviour in all its forms, a unique partnership has been formalised between Wales’ four police forces and the Nation’s leading environmental campaigners.

The three page protocol agreement between Keep Wales Tidy and the four police forces details how, by working in partnership, they could move towards creating a Cleaner, Safer and Tidier Wales.

Both partners agree that a clean and tidy Wales is likely to be a safer Wales, which can only be solved sustainably by changing people’s attitudes, thus making them less likely to engage in activities such as littering, flytipping, vandalism and dog fouling.

Experience has shown that reducing the fear of crime helps to reduce its occurrence and that greater public confidence in using and enjoying the local environment reduces the opportunities for the criminal elements to damage them.

Since Keep Wales Tidy’s ‘Tidy Towns’ initiative was launched two years ago, both partners have been involved in informal campaigns across Wales aimed at improving local environments. Successful outcomes from those campaigns led to a decision to make a more formal use of the partners’ resources, personnel, expertise and enforcement powers.

The protocol lists how mechanisms will be established for sharing intelligence. Partners will have a joint presence at environmentally-related events and keep each other up to date with relevant funding streams and opportunities to ensure that resources are spread further and thus avoid unnecessary duplication.

Louise Tambini, Projects Diretcor of Keep Wales Tidy commented:

“With the combined might of the Nation’s police forces and our experience in raising awareness of the impact of environmental damage, we can now look forward to making Wales both clean and safe. Our staff will be on hand to provide expert advice and the presence of police officers at many of our clean up initiatives should make it clear that anti-social behaviour will no longer be tolerated.”

Background Information:

Keep Wales Tidy is a registered Environmental Charity working for the improvement of the Welsh environment. Visit our website for more information: www.keepwalestidy.org
For more information please contact:
Wynne Williams, Communications Manager, Keep Wales Tidy, on 01286 67408, e-mail wynne.williams@keepwalestidy.org
Tidy Towns is a two part initiative between Keep Wales Tidy and Welsh Local authorities. Keep Wales Tidy are delivering the community engagement element of the Initiative by employing a dedicated project officer for every local Authority in Wales. For officer contact details please visit the KWT website.
Project Officers encourage communities to take responsibility for their local environment by adopting waste black-spots and restoring them to their former glory. Projects undertaken by groups include; litter picks, path maintenance, dune management, installing benches and picnic sites, invasive species clearance, improving disabled access, developing community gardens, running waste amnesties and habitat management.

Local Bands Back At Blue Light Disco in the Vale

webmaster@south-wales.pnn.police.uk (Editor) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The next blue Light Disco, held by the local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be held at the New Community Centre in St Athan on Saturday March 20th from 7.00pm until 10.00pm.

The previous disco was a huge success with over 70 young people going along and St Athan PCSO Lynda Fraser said: “We are very grateful to Phil Kirkham of Major Music in Llantwit Major who has again arranged for the bands to perform. Live performances certainly make a difference.

“This is a great partnership event with the neighbourhood Police working in collaboration with the MOD, Army and RAF Police, the Methodist Church based at The Gathering Place and local community volunteers.”

Commenting on the first disco, Michelle Legumi of St Athan Methodist Church said: “The Blue light disco and live band night was a great success with lots of young people coming along. We were pleased to host such an event where young people can be safe and enjoy a night out.

“We held a consultation last October when some 40 young people told us what they wanted to see in the community and band nights came up as one of the top five activities.

“Many were inspired by the bands, which were made up of young people of all ages, having a go and playing in front of their peers. It was also good to see parents supporting them. I was greatly impressed by the quality of the music.”