A multi-agency policing operation has seen figures for anti-social behaviour involving youths during the warm summer months decrease overall in the SA1 area of Swansea in 2025.
Under Operation Limpkin, figures for the months from May to September have shown a consistent decline in the number of issues involving youth anti-social behaviour reported to police, with 34 occurrences reported in 2022, 22 in 2023 and 16 in 2024.
With 2022 being the most recent summer in Swansea which enjoyed largely warm weather, data shows a marked decrease in ASB reports when compared with 2025, with 29 reports received this year. Figures in August alone have decreased from nine reports in 2022 to just one in 2025.
In previous years, issues would arise which included large groups of youths congregating, shouting and using foul language in public areas, as well as jumping in the water at the docks, throwing hazardous items, riding bicycles dangerously and antisocially, and more. These issues would negatively impact local residents and businesses.
Op Limpkin’s multi-agency approach has seen officers employ diversionary tactics in order to disperse anti-social groups. These tactics have seen youngsters encouraged elsewhere by the likes of the Ospreys in the Community initiative in Morfa, EVOLVE day trips, LC2 tickets and more.
Officers have liaised with local businesses and resident complexes to offer reassurance and offer victim focus assistance, including pointing residents towards reporting mechanisms which have been put in place to address the ASB issue in the area. Regular “Cuppa with a Copper” events are held in the area, which also allow residents the opportunity to discuss the ASB issues which are affecting them.
The Eastside Neighbourhood Policing Team and Special Constables have increased patrols and engagements in the SA1/Swansea Docks area to provide further reassurance, while a greater emphasis has been placed on the South Wales Listens platform in order to help victims to report any instances of ASB.
Inspector Andrew Price said:
“Residents of SA1 should not have to put up with any level of anti-social behaviour as they go about their daily business, and Operation Limpkin was set up in order to address these issues.
“It is pleasing to see that the data shows that the operation is having a positive effect. The Neighbourhood Policing Team and our PCSOs and Special Constables all work hard to ensure that the area we live is a welcome place for all, and operations like this ensure that the few don’t spoil things for the many.”
