JUST before 7:00pm on Friday (Jan 31), a man attacked police vehicles outside Talbot Green Police Station before being confronted by officers. During the violent struggle, three officers were injured. Two were taken to hospital for treatment and have since been discharged.
The suspect, 27-year-old Alexander Stephen Dighton from Llantrisant, has been charged with seven offences and is due to appear at Merthyr Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Feb 3) at 10:00am. His charges include:
- Attempted murder
- Assault of an emergency worker
- Assault
- Arson
- Criminal damage
- Possession of an offensive weapon
- Possession of a knife/bladed article
Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones said: “I wish to thank the local community and the wider public for their support and concern for the officers involved. Our officers showed great bravery and quick thinking during the altercation. Despite being understandably shaken, I am very glad to report that none of the officers involved sustained any major injuries.”
Large police presence at the scene
Eyewitnesses reported a heavy police presence in Talbot Green on Friday night. A staff member at La Luna restaurant, who asked not to be named, said they were told to stay inside as around 20 police vehicles arrived at the scene.
Videos shared online showed police cars lining the street, with blue lights illuminating the area. Dawn Latcham, who was in Talbot Green with her granddaughter, described seeing multiple police vehicles rushing past. “The police were keeping everyone at bay, but the whole of Talbot Green was lit up with blue lights,” she said.
Mohamad Osama, who works at local takeaway The Filling Station, said police arrived around 6:45pm and soon closed the road. “There are three vans outside now and a couple of police officers talking together,” he said. “The road is closed and they are not allowing anyone through.”
Public reassured following attack
Local MP Alex Davies-Jones, a minister in the Ministry of Justice, expressed her concern for the injured officers and their families. “I am reassured that the police are doing everything they can and continue to work tirelessly every day to keep our communities safe,” she said, urging people to avoid the area.
Local councillor Sarah Jane Davies acknowledged the public’s concern. “I understand this situation is causing anxiety, and I am seeking updates,” she said, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant.
Police confirmed that Talbot Road was closed in both directions following the attack. Coach company Stagecoach Wales announced it was unable to serve Talbot Green due to the ongoing police incident.
Chief Superintendent Jones confirmed that the investigation is in its early stages. “Currently, the motive for this attack is unclear,” he said. “We are working to understand the full circumstances, but at this stage, it appears to be a targeted attack on the police.” and despite being understandably shaken I am very glad to report that none of the officers involved sustained any major injuries.”
(Image BBC NEWS)