South Wales Police has been heavily criticised in an independent review for its handling of a riot in the Mayhill area of Swansea in May 2021, which left residents feeling 'unprotected'. The review found significant failings in command structures, operational decisions, and communications during the disturbances, which saw cars burnt and windows smashed following a vigil for Ethan Powell.
The report, led by Professor Elwen Evans QC, revealed that a senior officer on the ground requested specialist public order support twice but was denied both times. The officer was so frustrated that he bypassed the chain of command to authorise support, but it was too late. Assistant Chief Constable Mark Travis admitted confusion led to the denial, saying the force had sufficient resources but did not use them efficiently.
Residents described feeling 'terrorised' and 'abandoned' by police, with the panel noting 'raw emotion and distress' in their accounts. The report stated: 'All of the available evidence shows clearly that the residents of Waun Wen Road, Mayhill were left unprotected for a significant period of time.'
Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan apologised, saying: 'We failed to take action quickly enough on the night and for that I am truly sorry.' The force has since implemented measures to streamline the request process for public order support.
Seven police officers were injured and 37 people were arrested on suspicion of unlawful violence. A criminal investigation is ongoing, with a file submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service and charging decisions expected shortly.
