Police increase presence after anti-social behaviour reports

Richard Evans, local democracy reporter

North Wales Police have reassured residents living in two rural villages they are taking reports of anti-social behaviour seriously and have increased their presence.

Last week concerned councillors and residents claimed an unruly gang of youths were slashing car tyres, threatening residents and even carrying knives in the villages of Rhuallt and Tremeirchion.

Cllr Chris Evans said residents were too frightened to go out in the afternoon, such was the extent of the youths’ bad behaviour.

Other residents complained their tyres were being slashed and claimed the elderly felt intimidated.

Cllr Evans also reported the matter to Denbighshire County Council’s housing team, with residents also verifying the incidents had taken place.

‘Isolated incident’

North Wales Police said they were keen to work within the community to make sure people felt safe, but said only one “isolated” incident had been reported.

They added that no knives were involved in the incident.

Inspector Nathan Harvey said: “I would like to reassure the local communities that only one isolated incident has been reported to us.

“This was on May 20.

“There was no report of a knife having been involved, and we are continuing to investigate this incident in which a man was allegedly verbally abused.

“As a result of this, we have increased our presence in the area.”

He added: “I have spoken to Cllr Evans. We are keen to work together as partners within the community to ensure residents feel safe. I would urge anyone who has been involved in, or witnessed any incident, to report it to us on 101 or on our website . Always call 999 in an emergency.”