Six arrested over child abuse claims in Carmarthen
Six people have been arrested as part of an investigation into claims of child abuse at a school in Carmarthen.
Dyfed-Powys Police are looking into allegations, concerning former members of staff, that abuse took place at Rhydygors School between 1976 and 1986.
Police also confirmed they are looking at allegations of abuse at Cartref-y-Gelli children’s home also in Carmarthen between 1986 and 1990.
Rhydygors school provides special education for pupils with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.
Dyfed-Powys Police said allegations concerning the school were fully investigated when they were made in 2000 and were referred to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
However, no criminal proceedings were instigated at that time.
Further allegations were made in 2012, which also included claims of abuse at Cartref-y-Gelli, which prompted the current investigation.
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokeswoman said: “It is important to note that all allegations made concern members of staff who no longer work at Rhydygors School, and Cartref-y-Gelli care home has been closed for a number of years.
“Following an initial assessment of allegations received in 2012, and following consultation with the CPS, a new criminal investigation commenced with the remit to investigate all allegations made in 2012, and to also encompass previous allegations made.
“Under Operation Almond, a dedicated team of specialist investigators has been set-up to ensure a thorough investigation is undertaken into the allegations made, and also to ensure that support is provided for the victims who have already been identified, which is currently in excess of 20.”
“Dyfed-Powys Police are working closely with partner agencies as part of this investigation and the safety, welfare and protection of vulnerable people remain an absolute priority of all the organisations involved.”
Carmarthenshire County Council said it was working closely with Dyfed-Powys Police to fully investigate the allegations.
