‘Will not be tolerated’: Mark Drakeford condemns ‘violent scenes’ in Swansea as cars put on fire
The First Minister has condemned as “completely unacceptable” a major disturbance in Swansea which saw cars put on fire and pushed down a road.
He said that the “violent scenes” were “completely unacceptable” and “will not be tolerated anywhere in Wales”.
Social media footage showed crowds of people cheering as at least two cars were set alight and destroyed. A second video showed people throwing objects at police.
Absolute mad scenes in Mayhill, Swansea right now 😮 pic.twitter.com/XpOLcx79bi
— Courtney (@courtneynathxo) May 20, 2021
South Wales Police released a statement last night asking people in the Mayhill area of Swansea to “stay indoors while the matter is brought to a safe conclusion”.
Superintendent Tim Morgan said: “What is believed to have started as a vigil to a recently-deceased local resident has escalated into violence, criminal damage, and a wanton disregard for public safety.
“We have a number of officers at the scene working to de-escalate the situation as quickly as possible and allow other emergency service colleagues to attend to calls in the area.
“The incident is still ongoing and we urge anyone involved to leave the scene immediately.
“Those involved can expect to face robust action. Post-incident investigations will also aim to identify all those concerned.
“In the meantime, we urge local residents to stay indoors while the matter is brought to a safe conclusion.”
‘Criminal’
Mark Drakeford thanked South Wales Police for “bringing the situation under control and continuing to monitor it closely this morning”.
Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart described the scenes as “absolutely disgusting behaviour by yobs”.
“This is completely unacceptable and inexcusable behaviour,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with the residents who have had to put up with this utterly despicable behaviour in our community.
“Our officers have linked in with the police who have been on the scene for some time.
“We will support the police to identify, pursue, and prosecute those that have organised and participated in this criminal activity.”
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ALL those involved in the wanton criminal damage should be identified and brought before the courts as soon as possible and given the highest possible sentences. Who will be paying for all the damage to the property (hopefully the vehicles that were destroyed will be insured but that doesn’t always reflect the real value. As for the properties it might be that those residents have no insurance.). Total lack of respect for people, property and emergency workers. So much for the “Right to protest”!
I agree with everything you say but the origins of this was a vigil not a protest