Police have been patrolling Swansea’s main train station as the national coronavirus pandemic lockdown continues.
Officers from South Wales Police and British Transport Police have been stopping and talking to passengers at the High Street terminus to remind them they should only be making “essential” journeys.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Monday night a partial lockdown of the country, telling people they should only leave home to travel to and from work “where this is absolutely necessary”, to shop for food or medicines, or to take exercise.
Officers have been visible in communities across Wales today, talking to people who are out and about and reminding them of their responsibilities.
However, police are being given powers to issue on-the-spot fines to people who are breaking the lockdown, specifically those gathering in groups of more than two people.
The fine is expected to be around £30, and non-payment could see the offender/s appearing in court - once the courts have reopened.
South Wales Police declined to comment on the specifics of what officers were doing at Swansea station today.
But one of the people stopped, who you can hear from in the video at the top of this article, said they had been asked for proof of where they were travelling to, and told they should take a single journey to their destination and back home again.
The force’s chief constable, Matt Jukes, has previously said: “South Wales Police has a track record of maintaining public order and safety in huge events and at times of emergency. We have always done so positively, with pride and professionalism.
“So, we will continue to do what we do best - engage with people. We will ask them to support their communities and stick to these important restrictions. As the public would expect, we will also enforce the existing law when this is necessary and new legal powers, as they come into effect.”
