Gwent Police issue more than 100 fines for Covid-19 breaches – including 15 at a house party

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Gwent Police issued more than 100 fines to people breaching coronavirus regulations – including 15 at a house party in Aberbargoed.

Over the weekend of Saturday, January 23 and Sunday, January 24, fines were also handed out for “social gatherings” and for travelling without a reasonable excuse.

The force said officers are continuing community patrols, including roadside vehicle checks.

More than 300 motorists were stopped. As well as fines issued for Covid-19 breaches, 16 vehicles were seized for not having insurance and 31 motorists were reported for summons for speeding.

Road safety measures also carried out include driver eyesight tests and vehicle checks such as tyre safety.

Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough said: “We understand this is a really difficult time for our communities and we would like to thank those who are continuing to adhere to the Welsh Government restrictions. We have taken enforcement action against those who are blatantly flouting the rules and will continue to do so.

“It is totally unacceptable for people to be organising house parties and gatherings during this time. Those who are going against the restrictions are putting lives at risk.

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

“We will continue to engage, explain and encourage our communities to work together with us to keep everyone safe. Everyone has a part to play in stopping the spread of this virus.”

54 fines handed out the previous weekend

The previous weekend, January 16 and January 17, Gwent Police fined a total of 54 people for various breaches – including a house party in Rhymney.

Fifteen people were fined for breaches at the popular Cwmcarn Forest Drive. A further 25 motorists were also issued with warnings while visiting the beauty spot – with some coming from Bristol.