A Newport city councillor had pleaded with his residents to keep their children inside during the current Covid-19 pandemic.
In a post on Facebook, Councillor Kevin Whitehead, leader of the Newport Independents Party, claimed that some people aren't taking the virus seriously after he witnessed children hanging around in groups, against recent government advice.
Cllr Whitehead, who represents the Bettws ward in Newport, also praised the city council's leader, Cllr Jane Mudd, for her efforts during a tough time.
He wrote a plea to his residents, asking them to make sure their children were indoors, adding just how serious the situation is.
Current government guidelines say not to travel and not to meet people.
Social distancing includes avoiding all non-essential travel, and this will be enforced if people don't follow the advice.
You can still leave the house, and exercise is encouraged for anyone not self-isolating. But the rules on keeping your distance must be followed.
The government has also advised that people should avoiding gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as the phone, the internet, and social media.
Cllr Whitehead wrote: "Spoke with the Leader of Newport City Council today, she's trying her very best in the most challenging times.
"She's been informed that the situation in Newport is worsening at an increasing rate.
"This is not the flu or a common cold it's a very very deadly virus.
"Please keep your kids in, there are lots of boys hanging around, they're climbing scaffolding, being disrespectful."
He added: "Five people died in the Royal Gwent Hospital yesterday and a further eight are fighting for their lives in the ICU, many in the hospital are really really ill.
"I'm genuinely shocked that people are not taking this seriously, the police will shortly start patrolling the streets because basically some people don't actually care.
"The funeral directors as we speak have set up an area to cope with 200 bodies.
"This saddens me, please let's look out for each other before it affects your family and loved ones.
"Why aren't we listening?
"Do you have Nans and Grandads? Poorly relatives? Brothers and Sisters with illnesses?
"This disease will kill them within days. Please stay home."
