Car set on fire as police face ‘large-scale disorder’ at scene of collision in Cardiff

Read More

Police officers are facing “large-scale disorder” at the scene of a serious road traffic collision in Cardiff.

Officers were called to the scene of the crash on Snowden Road in Ely shortly after 6pm on Monday. Scenes being livestreamed on YouTube showed young people throwing fireworks and other missiles at a line of police officers with riot shields who were blocking one end of the street.

Shortly before midnight a red car was set on fire and was seen burning fiercely as a helicopter flew overhead. The rioters then targeted a second car parked behind the burning vehicle, trying to push it into the flames before turning it over. Pictures posted by WalesOnline showed a police car with a smashed windscreen.

Earlier, families with young children were seen in the street watching the disorder, but later the numbers reduced – although dozens of young people remained.

The public were warned that the road was closed between Wilson Road and Jackson Road and urged to avoid the area. At 8.21pm, South Wales police tweeted: “There is now a large number of officers working to manage the collision, but also to de-escalate ongoing disorder at the scene.

“We urge anyone involved to leave the scene immediately and ask local residents to stay away while the matter is brought to a safe conclusion.”

An hour later, police said emergency services remained at the scene and reiterated the importance of people staying away from the area. The force added: “Please avoid speculation – we will bring you the latest details as soon as we can – all of our updates must be factual.”

skip past newsletter promotion

after newsletter promotion

At 11.15pm, South Wales police provided a further update that officers remained at the scene to manage “large-scale disorder”. It added: “Again, we urge anyone involved or watching to leave immediately. We understand the concern from local residents and we ask you to stay indoors.”