Hardly anyone turned up for a lockdown protest, which was due to take place in Cardiff and sparked anger after being promoted on social media.
The demonstration – advertised through posters shared online – was due to take place in Bute Park at 12pm on Saturday and drew heavy criticism for potentially putting people’s lives at risk.
At midday on May 16, a police van was parked on Cooper’s Field, with two mounted officers seen in the area and another two on foot patrol.
One couple said they travelled from Bristol for the protest and someone posted on Twitter to say they could not find where it was meant to be taking place.
Posters also advertised similar gatherings in Heath Park in Cardiff and also in Swansea, but South Wales Police confirmed no such events were reported.
A force spokeswoman said: “[We were] made aware of protests and gatherings relating to coronavirus legislation advertised in our area.
“There was no reported activity at any of the advertised sites.”
A number of posters were shared online, apparently promoting protests in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport and other cities around the UK.
In Newport, it seemed there were no protesters at either Belle Vue Park or Beechwood Park.
Chief Inspector Rob Jenkins from Gwent Police tweeted: "Officers & CSOs are currently at both locations and it is pleasing to see that the public are making use of the open spaces & adhering to current guidelines.
"Thanks to Newport Council staff for their support."
It was unclear whether the posters were a hoax or a genuine protest against the coronavirus lockdown rules.
People were urged to avoid these locations for the safety of themselves and others.
Welsh Government rules state people must not meet in groups of more then two in public places, unless they live together or their job means they have to
Guidance states people must stay at least two metres apart and should avoid exercising in places they are aware can be busy, like parks.
Anna McMorrin, MP for Cardiff North, shared her concerns on Facebook, posting: “Please do the right thing – abide by the law, stay safe and protect lives.”
She said she was “deeply concerned” by the prospect of mass gatherings and reported the matter to South Wales Police.
South Wales Police urged people to take their protests online to avoid endangering lives.
A force spokesman said: “[We have] always acknowledged the right to peaceful protest and regularly works with protest organisers to facilitate lawful and safe demonstrations which cause minimum disruption to the wider public.
“At the current time the over arching goal for all must be to stay home, protect our NHS and save lives.”
Councillor Peter Bradbury, Cardiff council ’s cabinet member for culture and leisure, said holding an event in the city’s parks would require permission from the council.
He added: “Permission for this proposed mass gathering has not been granted and anybody attending will be breaking the law if not socially distancing.
“This is a serious pandemic and we will not stand by and see people put their and other people’s lives at risk.”
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