‘Significant’ Results Against Domestic Violence

Police say a crackdown on domestic violence in two Gwent council areas revealed some “significant” results.

The operation was run in Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly county borough area to coincide with the Six Nations tournament during February and March because officers believed there would be an increase in a number of factors that can lead to domestic abuse such as alcohol and debt.

In total, during the weekends when matches were played, 57 incidents of domestic violence were reported to police. The figures showed that on match weekends domestic violence incidents peaked at around 8pm. On non-match days, domestic violence incidents tended to peak between 11pm and midnight.

Detective Inspector Bill Davies said: “The results, showing an increase of domestic incidents earlier on in the day, demonstrate that early intervention is key. We had prepared for this type of activity and also visited repeat victims of such abuse during the day on match days to inquire about their welfare, offer reassurance and encourage them to report further incidents.

“Our work continues with our partners to tackle this type of horrific abuse that has such a negative impact on peoples’ lives. We will take robust action against offenders who should realise that this type of offence will not be tolerated in Gwent.”

During the initiative domestic violence vehicles, containing specialist officers supported their policing colleagues, attending incidents with them to offer additional support.