Chair condemns Swansea violence

South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has condemned the violence and disorder in Swansea last night, and praised officers who were subjected to extreme violence when missiles were thrown at them by a hostile crowd.

Steve said the scenes were shocking, with a number of officers being injured, and those responsible must be brought to justice.

“It was absolutely disgraceful and disturbing to see these scenes unfold,” said Steve, “Residents were forced to stay in their homes as the violence unfolded in the Mayhill area of the city. Properties and vehicles were seen to be damaged and destroyed by mindless individuals intent on causing damage and destruction.

“Officers were on hand to deal with those responsible and protect the public. I would like to thank all those on duty for their efforts to restore order in the face of his extreme violence.

“I understand that South Wales Police will be relentless in identifying those perpetrators and that they will be dealt with by the full force of the law.”

Home Secretary Priti Patel has commented on Twitter on the ‘disgraceful scenes’ and said her thoughts were with residents but she praised ‘brave officers @SWPSwansea for bringing it under control’ and gave police backing to take ‘robust action’ against those involved.

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael said he was extremely saddened to hear that officers were hurt.

“I am extremely grateful for the immediate actions taken by the police and our partners to these events and it was also heartening to hear that off-duty officers volunteered their time in support of colleagues and the safety of the local community,” he added.

First Minister Mark Drakeford has also spoken out on the incident.

He said: “The violent scenes in Swansea last night were completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated anywhere in Wales.

“Thank you South Wales Police Swansea for bringing the situation under control and continuing to monitor it closely this morning.”

Anyone with photos or video footage is asked to submit them via https://mipp.police.uk/operation/62SWP20B23-PO2 

People with information can also contact South Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting incident 992 of 20 May 2021.