Cardiff Council leader calls for calm following Ely riot
Disorder was sparked following a crash in which two teenage boys died
Last updated 23rd May 2023
The leader of Cardiff Council has called for calm after Monday night’s riot and said it is “really important” a full investigation into the deadly crash that preceded it can take place immediately.
Councillor Huw Thomas said: “My thoughts and deepest sympathies this morning are with the families of the young people who died in the road collision yesterday.
"This is a tragic event and they, and we, need to understand what happened and why.
“The best way we can achieve this is by letting the investigation begin as soon as possible. Any further trouble will only delay that investigation.
“I know the majority of people in Ely are deeply worried and concerned about the scenes last night.”
He continued: “It’s really important that a full investigation into what happened, and into how the road collision occurred, can take place immediately.
“For that to happen we need calm. Any continuation of last night’s trouble will only hamper any investigation.
“It’s important we all come together, and work together now, to find out exactly what happened. I urge everyone to do all they can to calm the situation.”
Violence broke out after two teenage boys died following a collision on Snowdon Road at around 6pm on Monday night.
Cars were set alight and fireworks and missiles thrown at police.
Extra specialist officers were drafted in to help restore order.
Welsh Conservative Leader Andrew RT Davies said there is "no excuse" for the disorder that unfolded and said it was "deeply concerning".
"There is simply no excuse for this kind of disorder in our communities and it is unacceptable that people have been made to feel unsafe in their own homes.
"My deepest condolences go out to the families of the two boys who lost their lives last night. My thoughts are also with the injured police officers, and I wish them a speedy recovery.
"I have submitted an emergency question in the Senedd today, to seek answers from the Welsh Government on what discussions they are having with South Wales Police regarding this concerning situation," he said.
Downing Street said the scenes in Cardiff were "appalling and completely unacceptable".
The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "The reports of disorder, violence, arson and specifically attacks on police officers are appalling and unacceptable.
"We remain grateful to the emergency services and first responders for all their support to the community and restoring order."