Tenby councillors urge increased police presence after stabbing incident

County councillor for Tenby’s North ward has reaffirmed his concerns regarding the ‘unfortunate behaviour’ which has been taking place in the seaside town in recent months, which escalated on Tuesday evening into something much more shocking, when two teenagers were arrested in connection with an incident which resulted in four youths sustaining stab wounds at Tenby Railway Station.
“This incident is not new, what is new is the use of knives. I have emailed Dyfed Powys Police approximately three weeks ago on other issues but not had the courtesy of a response, after yesterday's incident at their request,” Cllr MIchael Williams told the Observer.
“Officers are visiting me at my home on Thursday, and I will be reiterating my concerns, and making a very strong argument for a far more visible police presence in Tenby.
“I am very aware of the constraints on the police service, but Tenby has been let down, despite an ever increasing precept being imposed upon us. We have a right to feel safe in our community, and I know many that no longer do so.
“There was at one time a CCTV system set up in Tenby Police Station which was monitored, but it appears that the station is now closed.
“Cllr Paul Rapi [Tenby town councillor] has disturbing videos of gross misconduct and appalling violent behaviour in St Georges Street during late evening, the kind of drunken behaviour which is totally unacceptable in out town.
“I will also be discussing the needs of Tenby with The Police and Crime Commissioner,” he added.
Councillors in Tenby have also called for more visible policing in the seaside town, particularly during busy periods, to provide reassurance to the community and to act as a deterrent to further incidents, following a stabbing on Tuesday evening at the railway station.
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson told the Observer: “Dyfed-Powys Police were called to reports of serious disorder involving a group of youths at Tenby train station at approximately 9.50pm this evening (Tuesday, April 7).
“During the incident, an individual was in possession of a knife, which resulted in four youths sustaining stab wounds.
“All injuries are currently assessed as non-life threatening, and those affected are receiving appropriate medical treatment.
“Officers attended the scene promptly, and a 16-year-old youth and a 19-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of Section 18 Assault. They are in police custody and an investigation is underway.
“British Transport Police have primacy for the incident and are leading enquiries.
“The incident has been brought under control and the scene is secure. We understand an incident of this nature will cause concern, and there will be an increased police presence in the area to provide reassurance.”
©Video: BBC Wales