A National Police Air Service (NPAS) plane has been circling three areas of Cardiff for more than five hours on Friday, according to flight tracking data. The aircraft, which left its base shortly before 7pm, has focused on Ely, Gabalfa, and Rumney, as well as the city centre and St Mellons.
NPAS Statement on Operations
A spokesperson for NPAS said: "Our fixed wing team base from East Midlands Airport are operating in the South West region for tonight supporting forces and currently supporting South Wales Police with various incidents across the force area." South Wales Police have been contacted for further details.
Resident Concerns Over E-Bikes
One resident living near Gabalfa reported: "It felt like it was up circling for hours over Gabalfa and the surrounding areas and then we could hear it in the distance. I really hope it is something to do with the electric bikers who have been plaguing the area for weeks now."
In recent weeks, concerns have been raised about e-bikes in parts of Cardiff, particularly anti-social behaviour on the Taff Trail. Balaclava-wearing e-bikers have carried out a series of robberies and attacks in the city.
Police Response to Anti-Social Behaviour
Police increased patrols after reports of young men in balaclavas on electric scooters threatening and robbing cyclists and walkers. At the end of May, a dispersal order was issued in Gabalfa, covering streets such as Gabalfa Avenue, Aberporth Road, Waterston Road, and Cathedral View. The order gives officers powers to direct people to leave and not return for a set period if anti-social behaviour is suspected.
According to the South Wales Police website, as of March 2026, officers' main priorities include drug dealing and use, anti-social behaviour, and e-bike related theft.
