Investigation underway following serious assault in Butetown

POLICE in Cardiff are investigating after a 17-year-old boy was stabbed in Butetown yesterday evening (Thursday, July 25).

Emergency services were called to Christina Street at around 4.50pm, and the youth was taken to the University Hospital of Wales to be treated for his injuries which aren’t believed to be life-threatening.

While carrying out enquiries at the scene a 19-year-old man was arrested, initially in connection with the incident, though officers quickly established he was not a suspect.

The man was however re-arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply. He remains in police custody.

A further four people – two men aged 24 and two men aged 25 – were later arrested at the University Hospital of Wales on suspicion of Section 18 wounding relating to the 17-year-old. One of the men had also presented at the hospital with a stab wound.

Enquiries in to the incident are ongoing and anyone with any information is urged to contact police.

A police presence remains in the area while the investigation continues. An unrelated drugs warrant was also conducted in Christina Street this morning (Friday, July 26).

Local Policing Inspector for Cardiff Bay, Sohail Anwar, said: “The serious assault early yesterday evening was extremely concerning and we appreciate that tensions are high within the community.

“Given the serious nature of the incident, the large police presence was both proportionate and necessary, and I would like to thank members of the public who have provided information which will allow us to carry out a thorough investigation. However I would urge people who have yet to come forward to do so.

“Thankfully, the wounds suffered by the 17-year-old and the man who attended hospital later in the evening are not believed to be life-threatening. However, the consequences could have been far more serious and it is vital that the local community work with us to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

“Patrols in the area will be stepped up throughout the weekend following the incident, and our dedicated Op Sceptre Teams will be out on the streets making it uncomfortable for anyone involved in knife crime and drugs.”

Anyone with any information about the incident should contact 101, quoting occurrence 1900272344. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Anyone with concerns or suspicions that someone they know is carrying a knife or any other weapon is also urged to contact 101 or Crimestoppers.