Two teenage boys died in crash before 'violent disorder' in Cardiff

South Wales Police say two teenage boys died in a crash in Cardiff last night which happened before "large scale disorder" broke out.

They were called to Snowdon Road in Ely at around 6pm last night.

In a statement, the force says its thoughts are with those who have died and those affected by last night's violence.

Fireworks and missiles were thrown at police wearing riot gear.

Cars were also set on fire, property damaged and police officers injured.

Specialist officers from other forces were also drafted in to help.

Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford has expressed his concern on social media.

He tweeted to say: "Very concerned to see the upsetting reports from Ely overnight and my thoughts are with all those affected.

"We continue to monitor the situation to gain a fuller understanding of the circumstances."

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Travis said: “First and foremost our thoughts are with families of the two boys who have died following the collision in Ely and with those affected by the disorder which followed.

“These are scenes we do not expect to see in our communities, particularly a close-knit community such as Ely. We received a large number of calls from residents who were understandably frightened by the actions of this large group who were intent on causing crime and disorder.

“The level of violence towards emergency services and the damage to property and vehicles was totally unacceptable.

“Our focus now is to fully investigate the circumstances of the collision and the appalling scenes that followed.

“Arrests have already been made in connection with the disorder and more will follow. We shall be maintaining an enhanced police presence throughout the week and into the weekend.

“We would like to thank the public for their support and appeal to anyone with information or video footage to come forward and provide that to us.”

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