A 39 year old man has been charged with the Attempted Murder of a 22 year old woman. Police were called to Heol Calfin in Ravenhill, Swansea just before 3pm on Friday 31st January where a 22-year-old woman was found with head injuries. The 22 year old woman remains in an unstable condition in hospital.

Police searching for a prolific burglar who has been recalled to prison are appealing to the public to help them find him.

Officers want  to speak Darren Thomas, who has been recalled to prison after breaching his release licence in December 2013.

The 37 year-old, also known as ‘Buffer’, is believed to be staying near Cardiff City centre and is a regular user of public transport.

He has links across Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil as well as in the south west of England in places such as Bristol and Taunton.

Anyone who knows where he is can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or they can call South Wales Police’s non emergency 101 number.

A call centre worker who travelled from Manchester to Cardiff to con an elderly woman has been jailed for fraud and theft.

Detectives have praised the 78-year-old victim for her quick-thinking actions which helped identify Kamal Hussein as the person responsible.

Hussein drove around 180 miles to the woman’s house in Canton claiming he needed to refund her bank account in person. He then stole her card and using her personal identification number (PIN) withdrew £500 from her account using cash machines in Cardiff and Newport.

The victim instinctively sensed something was wrong as soon as he left her house and wisely preserved a glass from which he had drunk some water in her kitchen.

Forensic examination confirmed Hussein as the suspect. The 34-year-old customer advisor was arrested four days later on November 18 in Manchester and pleaded guilty at the first hearing at Cardiff Magistrates the following day.

Detective Constable Sara Bradbury from South Wales Police said: “Hussein used many different names and had no connection to Cardiff. He targeted this lady because of her age and there were other similar victims in North Wales and Kent.

“Our victim felt stupid that this had happened to her but in reality she is an extremely smart lady and without her help we would not have caught Hussein.

“When she was told he was now in prison she was very relieved and said she could finally stop shaking.”

Hussein was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday, January 31 to six months for 10 fraud offences and two years for two counts of theft to run concurrent. He received a further six-month prison sentence to run consecutive for breach of licence.

The victim was given a full refund by her bank.

Members of the public are reminded never to provide their bank details to cold callers.

Three arrests were made by South Wales Police at today’s Swansea City v Cardiff City game at the Liberty Stadium.

Police have praised the behaviour of the vast majority of supporters before, during and after the game which was attended by a capacity crowd of 20,402 people, including 1,640 away fans.

Match commander Superintendent Phil Davies said: “Once again Swansea and Cardiff supporters have created a great atmosphere and enjoyed a trouble-free occasion at the Liberty Stadium.

“There were three arrests of individuals who clearly had too much to drink and they will now face the consequences of their actions.

“I am pleased with the way we have worked in partnership with both clubs in preparation for this game and just like at the reverse fixture in Cardiff, a positive impression has been left with the millions of people who watched this game across the world.”

A 47-year-old man from the Rhondda was arrested for being drunk and disorderly in a public place having been refused entry to the stadium for being intoxicated.

A 55-year-old man from the Rhondda was arrested for a public order offence on arrival at the stadium.

A 30-year-old man from the Rhondda was arrested on suspicion of assault within the stadium concourse.

All three were taken into custody at Swansea Central Police Station.

Due to the closure of the M4 at Briton Ferry following an overturned lorry, police used an alternative route to escort Cardiff supporters home.

South Wales Police is investigating the sudden and unexplained death of a 29-year-old man from Rumney, Cardiff during the early hours of February 9.

Officers investigating his death on behalf of HM Coroner have received information regarding the so-called neck and nominate game.

Enquiries are continuing and a post-mortem examination is due to take place

Nine charged as part of major drugs investigation.

Led by Wales’ Regional Organised Crime Unit, Tarian, the anti-drugs operation resulted in a number of arrests, with nine people appearing in court charged with drugs supply offences.

The charges follow a large seizure of what is believed to be heroin  estimated to be worth several million pounds. Officers also recovered a substantial amount of cash as part of the operation.

The arrests were made after a number of warrants were executed in Cardiff and Newport as well as vehicles stopped by police on the M5 motorway. Police officers from South Wales and Gwent police forces have been acting on information provided by members of public from the regions’ communities, as part of a proactive investigation into the supply of heroin into south east Wales.

Detective Chief Inspector Lian Penhale of Regional Organised Crime Unit, said:

“We believe the past week’s arrests have successfully disrupted many of those who have been suspected of dealing in drugs.

“Drugs are a source of misery and blight communities.  Our message is simple – this will not be tolerated.

“Tarian consists of staff from Gwent, South Wales and Dyfed Powys Police and is supported by the Welsh Assembly Government . Tarian is part of the Southern Wales response to combating Serious and Organised Crime and is committed to protecting the communities in Southern Wales from the misery and harm caused by the distribution and supply of drugs.  I want to reassure the public that these proactive operations will continue. Through tough enforcement and positive community engagement, we will strive to keep our communities safe environments for everyone to enjoy.”

Nicola Rees, Senior Crown Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service Wales Complex Casework Unit, said:

“The CPS has been working closely with officers from the Regional Organised Crime Unit as this investigation into the supply of Class A drugs in South Wales has developed.

“We have now reviewed evidence relating to a number of individuals identified through the investigation. In accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, we concluded that there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to charge nine individuals with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

They are:

Mohammed Sajjad, 36, from Gabalfa.

Umar Butt, 24, from Grangetown.

Khalid Yassen, 28, from Roath.

Paul Anthony Thomas, 40, from Llanrumney

Tracey Marie Spriggs, 37, from Llanrumney

Imtiaz Ali, 33, from Newport.

Waseem Mohammed Riaz 26, from Newport

Mohammed Aftab Boota 25,from Newport

Shazia Tahir Ahmed 35, from Newport

The family of Stephen Brookes who died during the early hours of Sunday, February 9 has released the following statement:

“Stephen grew up in Rumney and attending Rumney High School. He was well known for his outgoing personality, his friendship and generosity. Everyone knew of Stephen’s great sense of humour, he was always winding people up “what’s that on your leg”.

“Stephen was extremely close to his brother Paul (Roy) who he loved dearly. Even when they decided to leave home they moved opposite each other. Paul and Gemma were always a great support.

“Stephen enjoyed playing dominoes with his dad and brother. He was always up to date with the latest fashion and was well known for his NIKE TN trainers. He enjoyed socialising with his friends but also enjoyed staying in with a take-away and had a great love of crisps.

“When he was younger he enjoyed participating in sports and was part of the baseball, football, cricket, hockey and rugby teams.

“Stephen had a massive heart and he loved all his family dearly and would do anything for them, his grandparents, siblings, uncles, aunties, cousins and all of his friends.

“We would like to say thank you for all the support that we have received. The cards and flowers are all beautiful and we are overwhelmed by all the beautiful messages on Facebook.

“As his parents we are heartbroken by this sad tragedy and the loss of our son who we loved so dearly. We will miss his cheeky smile.

“We hope that nobody else had to experience this.”

South Wales Police today announced the appointment of Matt Jukes as the force’s Deputy Chief Constable.

 Mr Jukes joined South Wales Police in 2010 as an Assistant Chief Constable responsible for specialist crime matters. He has also been active in collaboration, establishing a joint scientific support unit, leading several high profile counter terrorism operations and overseeing the regional organised crime unit, Tarian.

 He takes over the position of Deputy Chief Constable following Colette Paul’s promotion to Chief Constable of Bedfordshire Police.

 South Wales Chief Constable, Peter Vaughan made the announcement from force headquarters in Bridgend and said,

 “I have worked closely with Matt for the last three years and know his vast amount of operational experience and expertise and his diverse knowledge and range of skills are of great benefit to the force and the public of South Wales.

 “As a senior member of my management team, Matt has played a key part in the performance improvements achieved over the last few years.

 “The experience and strategic foresight that Matt brings to the role of deputy Chief Constable provides a continuity that is of great benefit and adds further strength to an already strong senior team.”

 Deputy Chief Constable Jukes, 40, joined the police service in 1995. He served with South Yorkshire Police for 15 years, where his last role was as Divisional Commander for Rotherham. He has undertaken a number of specialist roles and is the national lead on the police role in countering cyber terrorism. He has also worked nationally with forces and industry to tackle commercial robbery and with partners in the health service in Wales, particularly on mental health issues.

 Now Deputy Chief Constable, Matt has responsibility for performance, planning and the organisation’s change management programme, as well as overseeing the Corporate Communications and Professional Standards Departments.

 On taking up his new position, he said:

 “It is a great privilege to be appointed Deputy Chief Constable and I’m delighted by the opportunity to continue to serve the communities of South Wales in this new role.

 “Over the last three years, I have been consistently impressed by the force’s ability to respond to extraordinary operational demands and improve performance, at the same time as dealing with significant organisational change. This gives me real optimism for the period ahead, even as we face further challenges.

 “I look forward to supporting the Chief Constable and all the members of the force who are working hard to keep South Wales safe.”

Police investigating a robbery in Swansea on Wednesday 7th August are linking three other similar incidents.

 A 38-year-old woman was walking on Princess Way, near the Cross Keys public house at 8.45pm when a motorcycle with a rider and passenger rode up behind and snatched her cream coloured handbag, which contained a quantity of cash, driving licence, passport, and credit cards. It was then seen to drive off down Princess Way in the direction of York Street.

The motor cycle used is believed to be a dark coloured moped, and the only description of the suspects, is that both were wearing light coloured crash helmets.

 Officers are investigating a similar incident which happened at around 8.30pm on Wednesday 7th August when the 35-year-old female victim was stood at Woodfield Street in Morriston opposite Iceland.

 Further incidents happened on Thursday 8^th August, at Caer Street at 8.50pm when the 19-year-old female victim was stood near Yates pub and then on New Cut Road at 9.35pm when the 17-year-old female victim was walking towards the city centre.

 Detective Sergeant Steve Daniels of Swansea CID said: “The four incidents are almost identical with females carrying bags or purses and apparently being targeted.

 “The incidents at Woodfield Street, Caer Street and New Cut Road were all attempted robberies where the victims managed to hold on to their property.

“We are appealing to any witnesses or anyone with information about these incidents to contact the police as those responsible need to be apprehended.”

 Anyone with information should contact Swansea Central CID on 01792 450618 or 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Working in partnership is the best way to tackle domestic violence, according to the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales, Sophie Howe.

A recent seminar held by Mrs Howe saw representatives from a number of organisations meet to discuss how the issue can be properly tackled.

Mrs Howe said: “Tackling violence against women and girls is not only an issue for the police, but the Welsh Government.  Therefore it is very important for as many partners as possible to be involved, so we can work together to challenge this often invisible crime.

“I am pleased with the progress made already, but know there is much more that can be done to overcome this issue, if we all work together.”

Amongst other things, a new Forum is being considered, made up of partners including Women’s Aid and the Welsh Government, and led by the Deputy Commissioner, to improve collaboration work.

Mrs Howe said: “There is a need for strong leadership on the domestic abuse agenda.  A dedicated forum may be one way of beginning this process, as it can provide a more integrated and accountable approach to the service provided by all partners – be it police, health or government.”

Other issues raised during the event was the need for a common approach for all partners that establishes how the best service should be provided.  Alongside this, there is a need for an effective approach for victims from the first contact to the end of required support.  Those attending also heard from a domestic abuse survivor, who spoke of her experience and the positive and negative aspects of the service she received.

Mrs Howe said: “Victims should be entitled to a consistent and appropriate service throughout their experience and for support to still be available after any conviction or perceived case closure.  Putting the victims at the heart of our work is a key priority for the Commissioner, Alun Michael.  I am determined to make sure this will happen in domestic abuse situations.”

Police in Cardiff are appealing for information about four burglaries which happened on the same day across the city.

 The incidents happened between midday and 3pm on Friday 12^th July when the living quarters of shops were targeted.

 Several men visited shops in Habershon Street in Splott, Colwinstone Street, Llandaff North, Cornwall Street, Grangetown, and Carlisle Street, Splott, and distracted staff before entering the private areas.

 At the Colwinstone Street burglary, several thousand pounds, cigarettes and jewellery were stolen. Nothing was stolen during the other three incidents.

 Police are linking all four incidents and have released CCTV images of five men who are wanted in connection with the offences.

 Detective Constable Kath Barry, based at Fairwater CID, said: “All these incidents have happened in the middle of the day when the men have made brazen efforts to enter the living areas of the shops to steal property.

 “I am appealing to anyone who has information which could help us identify these men to come forward.”

 Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

South Wales Police is appealing for information following an incident at Grove Terrace, Penarth in the early hours of today (Saturday, 17th August). 

A 69 year-old local man was found lying in the road with serious injuries at 1.30am.

Officers suspect he was hit by a vehicle which may not have stopped at the scene and has since failed to report the incident.

However it is also a possibility that he may have been the victim of an assault.

He is currently being treated at the University Hospital of Wales where he was admitted with serious injuries.

Police are appealing to anybody who have seen what happened to contact them.

In particular, they are urging the driver or the occupants of any vehicle that was involved in an incident at Grove Terrace last night to come forward immediately.

Acting Detective Inspector Paul Mason, said: ‘We can’t be sure what has happened but early indications suggest he was struck by a vehicle. If that is the case, the driver or passengers must to do the right thing and to come forward to explain what happened.’

The man was returning home from the Penarth Conservative Club where he had spent the evening.

Anyone with information can call the non emergency 101 number or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police in Cardiff are appealing for information on burglars who broke into the house of a man who had recently died.

The man’s family are extremely distressed by the break-in which they discovered on what would have been his birthday.

The burglars forced entry to the property in Clydesmuir Road, Tremorfa, through the back door and stole the boiler and copper piping.

It is believed the suspects would have taken the items through the back door, round the side of the house and out into the street presumably to load on to a van due to the size of the items.

Any witnesses to this are asked to contact police.

House to house enquiries have been carried out and the house has been examined by scenes of crime officers since the burglary was reported on Monday, August 19.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cardiff CID on 02920 527420 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting occurrence *260449.

ENDS.

Former detective constable Jeffrey Davies has today been dismissed from South Wales Police following a gross misconduct disciplinary hearing chaired by Chief Constable Peter Vaughan.

Earlier this month, Davies was convicted of sexual offences and sentenced to three years in prison.

Chief Constable Peter Vaughan said: “Jeffrey Davies was in a position of great trust but that trust was betrayed by his criminal behaviour. His actions were completely unacceptable and he has let down his colleagues and the communities he once served.

 “Davies displayed a gross abuse of position and power which will not be tolerated within policing.

 “The thorough and determined investigation carried out by South Wales Police and managed by the IPCC demonstrates our determination to tackle behaviour of this kind.”

A MAN has been banned from begging and entering Cardiff city centre as a result of a Crime-Related Anti-Social Behaviour Order (CRASBO) imposed on him for three years.

Darren Powell, 40, was made the subject of the order at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on August 23 to protect the public from his anti-social behaviour.
The three-year order bans him from begging anywhere within England and Wales and entering Cardiff city centre.

South Wales Police applied for the order which, if breached, carries on conviction a term of imprisonment for five years, a fine, or both.
PC Alex Bourner, Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator for Cardiff, said: “Darren Powell has been a prolific and persistent beggar within the city centre areas and most recently within the Cathays area.

“He would sit outside retail premises asking for members of the public for money and would become verbally aggressive if they refused him money.

“We have been working closely with Cardiff University as they have reported him being in or around their premises asking students for money.

“Begging continues to be a PACT priority for residents and businesses, and therefore we will continue to take action.”

Anti social behaviour orders give individuals an opportunity to abide by the conditions and to change their behaviour.
We would urge the public to continue reporting all incidents of anti-social behaviour and if they believe the terms of an ASBO are being broken, they should contact the police on 101.

Police in Merthyr are appealing to the public to help them find wanted man Dafydd Merkel.

 The 27 year-old is wanted in connection with a burglary which occurred in Aberfan last month.

 Officers suspect he may be in the Treharris area, but he also has links to Gwent areas where he is also wanted by police.

 Anyone who has seen him, or who knows where he is, is urged to call South Wales Police’s 101 number or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police in Barry are appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery which happened at around 4am on Saturday 21st September.

The 23-year-old female victim was walking home after a night out when she was approached by a man who tried to steal her mobile phone.

The incident occurred on O’Donnell Road close to the junction with Robins Lane.

The suspect is described as being white, aged in his 20s or 30s, around 5ft 5ins in height, of average build. He spoke with a local accent and is described as having a deep voice. It is believed that the man was intoxicated.

He was wearing dark coloured bottoms, a light blue hooded top with the hood up and white trainers. He ran off after he failed to grab the phone from her.

Police are continuing their investigation into the incident and are appealing for any witnesses or anyone who recognises the suspect from the description to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.