Clear Hold Build - Operation for City Road and the Winter Of Action for Albany and Wellfield Road

Issued 12 December 2025

1) Officers have identified suspicious activity at an address on Cathays Terrace. On forcing entry to the address, it was evident that the premises was being used to house a cannabis factory. 231 cannabis plants located, and a 32-year-old man has been arrested and charged for cultivation of cannabis. All 231 plants and factory equipment have been seized and sent for destruction.

2) Whilst out on patrol around hot spot areas, officers have sighted a outstanding stolen vehicle. 2 men have attempted to make off from the location before being detained. Searches recovered 22 wraps of heroin and 30 wraps of cocaine with an estimated street value of £1340-£1860. Both males have been arrested for autocrime offences and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

Actioned 12 January 2026

Shoplifting & Retail crime - Thefts from stores

Issued 17 September 2025

The Neighbourhood Policing Team continues to prioritise shoplifting and theft from stores in Plasnewydd. Officers have been working closely with local businesses to make reporting easier and improve overall security, helping to maintain a plateau in thefts. Proactive patrols and targeted enforcement have led to significant arrests, including an individual apprehended in November for 17 offences, who is currently on remand. Such behaviour is not tolerated, and the team supports the use of Criminal Behaviour Orders where appropriate to prevent repeat offending. With the festive period approaching, continued vigilance will be key to preventing an increase in retail crime and protecting the local community.

Actioned 12 December 2025

Electric scooters

Issued 17 September 2025

Illegal use of electric scooters and e-bikes remains a focus for the Neighbourhood Policing Team. During the Summer Safer Town Centres campaign, Operation Totara successfully targeted this issue, resulting in the seizure of over 150 scooters and e-bikes and a noticeable reduction in their use across the area. The team continues to monitor and enforce against illegal riding, particularly where it is linked to drug-related activity. Looking ahead, we plan to deliver similar operations under the Winter of Action campaign, working closely with Cardiff Council and other partners to maintain a coordinated, sustained approach to tackling this problem and protecting the local community.

Actioned 12 December 2025

Drug use & dealing

Issued 17 September 2025

Drug use and dealing remains one of the most significant priorities for the Cathays Neighbourhood Policing Team, as it underpins many of the other issues the community experiences. Officers continue to disrupt both possession and supply through targeted patrols, intelligence-led operations, and arrests. Most recently, an individual was stopped and arrested for possession of 55 wraps of heroin, with investigations ongoing. While further operational details cannot be shared for legal reasons, such enforcement is a regular part of the team’s work. The NPT remains committed to tackling drug-related harm, protecting the community, and supporting partner agencies in addressing the wider impact of this criminality.

Actioned 12 December 2025

Drug Dealing - City Road

Issued 17 June 2025

The Neighbourhood Policing Team continues to prioritise tackling drug dealing on City Road. With the introduction of Operation Lipfern and Autumn Plans now in full swing, it is anticipated that enforcement and disruption activity will significantly increase over the coming weeks. Intelligence-led patrols and plain clothes operations are being deployed to target known offenders and hotspot locations, with a focus on safeguarding vulnerable individuals and disrupting local supply networks. Engagement with businesses, residents, and partner agencies continues to ensure a balanced approach that addresses criminality while reassuring the wider community.

Actioned 17 September 2025

Antisocial Behaviour - Roath Rec and Community Parks

Issued 17 June 2025

The Neighbourhood Policing Team continues to focus on reducing anti-social behaviour in and around Roath Recreation Ground and other community parks in Plasnewydd. Officers have conducted high-visibility patrols, particularly during peak times in the evenings and weekends, to deter nuisance behaviour and reassure park users. Engagement with local residents, park users, and community groups such as Fiery Jacks has helped identify recurring issues. Where necessary, problem-solving interventions have been implemented, including ASB warnings and targeted enforcement through Safer Town Centres. Officers have also conducted a Speed Swareness Campaign on Ninian Road next to the Rec, checking 501 vehicles in the operation.

Actioned 17 September 2025

Retail crime & Shoplifting - City Road and Albany Road

Issued 17 June 2025

Retail crime and shoplifting continue to be a significant issue on City Road and Albany Road. The Neighbourhood Policing Team is reviewing internal processes to ensure all incidents are fully captured and that repeat offenders are appropriately pursued. The frustration caused by the volume of shoplifting is shared by both South Wales Police and local business owners. Operational efforts have included deploying the CCTV van, running multiple plain clothes and high-visibility patrols, and utilising a range of tactics to deter offending and gather evidence. Efforts were made to engage all local businesses and use Safer Town Centre funding to provide RadioNet units to enhance community communication and collaboration; however, despite the offer of a free 12-month contract, uptake was limited. These activities aim to reduce retail crime, support the business community, and maintain public confidence.

Actioned 17 September 2025