In a bid to ensure community safety, police in certain areas of Cardiff have implemented special measures to curb anti-social behaviour over the weekend. Dispersal orders, authorized under section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, have been instated in three key regions of Lanrumney and St Mellons, spanning the majority of the upcoming weekend.
Effective from 3 pm on Friday, October 27, until 3 am on Sunday, October 29, the dispersal orders empower law enforcement officers to address individuals causing, or likely to cause, harassment, alarm, or distress within the specified areas. A spokesperson from South Wales Police elaborated on the purpose, stating, “Under section 35 of the act, police officers can instruct anybody who is causing or is likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to leave the areas.”
In addition to instructive powers, officers are authorized to seize any property suspected of being used to perpetrate anti-social behaviour. The move is considered a preventative measure, responding to a surge in reported incidents of anti-social behaviour in the designated locales.
This development coincides with Cardiff Bus taking precautionary measures for Halloween and Bonfire Nights, altering bus routes to prioritize passenger safety. Notably, Llanrumney is among the areas affected by these changes, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to community well-being.
Meanwhile, Swansea police are addressing the issue of anti-social behaviour from a different angle. Authorities in the city center have been granted augmented powers to address the involvement of children as young as 10 years old in such activities, specifically over the Halloween period. A section 35 dispersal order has been instituted, covering a defined area, subject to review every 48 hours until Bonfire Night on Sunday, November 5.
The decision to implement dispersal orders underscores a commitment to maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of residents. These measures are not taken lightly but are considered essential tools in responding to the evolving landscape of anti-social behaviour. While respecting individual rights, authorities emphasize the importance of a collective responsibility to foster secure and harmonious communities.
South Wales Police highlighted the proactive nature of the dispersal orders, clarifying that they are designed to deter potential incidents before they escalate. The authority granted to officers, including the ability to confiscate property used for anti-social activities, serves as a deterrent and reinforces the message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
Cardiff Bus’s decision to divert routes during Halloween and Bonfire Nights aligns with an industry-wide commitment to passenger safety during potentially tumultuous periods. By adjusting routes in affected areas, the transit agency aims to mitigate potential risks and maintain smooth operations.
In Swansea, the introduction of dispersal orders for minors underscores the need for a nuanced approach to addressing anti-social behaviour. By subjecting the orders to regular review, authorities demonstrate a commitment to adapt their strategies based on the evolving situation.
As communities gear up for seasonal celebrations, the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, public transport providers, and local authorities aim to strike a balance between individual freedoms and collective safety. The weekend will serve as a litmus test for the effectiveness of these measures, as Cardiff and Swansea residents unite to ensure that festivities are enjoyed responsibly and without compromise to public well-being.
