Police to take action against people who “blatantly” flout lockdown rules

Gwent Police has once again warned it will take action against people who “blatantly” flout coronavirus restrictions.

Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough has warned residents not to “put yourself and others at risk by having a house party”.

It comes after 54 people were fined across the Gwent Police area for breaking coronavirus restrictions last weekend – with police attending parties in Caerphilly town and Rhymney.

Wales was placed under ‘Alert Level 4‘ lockdown restrictions on December 20.

These restrictions will remain in place until at least January 29, when Welsh Government will complete it’s three-week review into the coronavirus situation in the country.

Chief Superintendent Hobrough said: “Alert Level four restrictions are still in place in Wales which means that people should remain in their own household and only travel when necessary. 

“House parties and any mixing of households, both indoors and outdoors, is prohibited by Welsh Government regulations.

“Organising parties and gatherings is dangerous, selfish and is totally unacceptable in light of the current threat we face. Please don’t risk the lives of your loved ones and the wider community by having house parties or gatherings.”

He thanked “the majority of Gwent residents who are adhering to Covid regulations” and said: “We will continue to engage, explain and encourage our communities to work together with us to keep everyone safe.

“For those who blatantly go against the restrictions, we will take enforcement action.

“Coronavirus levels remain high across much of Gwent, and by following Welsh Government advice we’re all saving lives and protecting the NHS.”