A teenager has been charged with a public order offence following violent disorder in Cardiff city centre ahead of the Championship match between Cardiff City and Bristol City on Saturday, February 15. The incident, which reportedly involved clashes between football fans and police, caused disruptions in the area and left some residents fearful of visiting the city centre.
Details of the Incident
The disorder broke out on the morning of February 15, just hours before the Cardiff City vs. Bristol City match at the Cardiff City Stadium on Leckwith Road. Witnesses described scenes of “chaos” as groups of football fans engaged in violent behavior, with buses attacked and warnings issued to avoid the area.
Key Events:
- The trouble began around 10:30 am in Cardiff city centre.
- A bus was damaged when a masked individual kicked the door, cracking the glass.
- A large crowd of fans was seen clashing with police, who were on foot and horseback.
- The police worked to keep rival fans apart, particularly near the Prince of Wales pub.
One witness told Wales Online:
“Football fans are hitting our bus as they go past. One masked fan booted the door, cracking the glass. We heard on the radio that all buses should avoid the city centre.”
Police Response and Arrest
South Wales Police deployed a large policing operation to manage the situation and ensure the safety of matchgoers and city centre visitors.
Official Police Statement:
“Officers were very busy ensuring supporters got to the stadium as safely as possible. A derby fixture like this always carries a highly charged atmosphere. Unfortunately, a small minority seek to engage in disorder, but officers responded quickly to stop any such incidents.”
Arrest and Charges:
- Mackenzie Bailey, 18, from Yate, South Gloucestershire, was charged with a Section 4 Public Order offence.
- Bailey has been bailed while police continue their investigation into the disorderly conduct.
Eyewitness Accounts: Fear and Confusion
Several witnesses reported feeling scared and confused as events unfolded in the city centre.
- Public transport users were particularly affected, with reports of buses being attacked.
- Videos circulating online showed a large mob of fans, many carrying a giant England St George’s Cross flag, moving through the streets while clashing with police.
One passenger on a city bus recounted:
“Masked fans were hitting our bus as they passed by. It was terrifying. We were told over the radio to stay away from the city centre.”
Matchday Outcome and Crowd Control
Despite the morning disorder, the Cardiff City vs. Bristol City match proceeded as scheduled, ending in a 1-1 draw.
- Police remained on high alert throughout the day.
- Post-match crowd control measures were implemented to separate opposing fans and prevent further incidents.
Huw Thomas, Cardiff Council Leader, later reassured the public:
“Whilst it’s disappointing to see the behaviour of a handful of idiots, there are no ongoing issues in Cardiff city centre. I’m grateful to South Wales Police for dealing with the situation swiftly.”
Community Reaction: Mixed Responses
The disturbances have sparked mixed reactions among Cardiff residents and football supporters.
Concerns from Residents:
- Fear of violence in public areas.
- Disruption to transport services.
- Negative image of the city due to football-related incidents.
Football Fans’ Perspectives:
- Most fans condemned the violence, emphasizing that it was the work of a small minority.
- Some pointed out the importance of better policing to separate fans earlier.
Ongoing Investigation
South Wales Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify others involved in the disorder.
- Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from the city centre.
- The police have appealed for witnesses to come forward with any information.
How to Help:
If you witnessed the incident or have information, you can contact South Wales Police by calling 101 or visiting their official website.
The violent disorder ahead of the Cardiff City vs. Bristol City match serves as a stark reminder of the challenges authorities face in policing high-profile sporting events. While the majority of fans attended the match peacefully, the actions of a small group resulted in public fear, property damage, and an ongoing police investigation.
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