Boy Arrests School Burglar

Police in south Wales have praised the actions of a 16-year-old boy who apprehended the suspect for a burglary at a local primary school.

Brynhyfryd Primary School in Briton Ferry was burgled late on Monday night which resulted in computer equipment being stolen.

An eagle-eyed local teenager spotted suspicious activity within the school grounds and after running out of his house, performed a citizens' arrest on the suspect and detained him with the help of his step-father.

Police were called and arrested a 16-year-old male on suspicion of burglary and recovered a quantity of computer equipment which was concealed in a wheelie bin.

The suspect has subsequently been charged with burglary and appeared before Neath Magistrates Court.

Detective Inspector Jason Davies, of Neath Port Talbot CID, said entry had been gained to the school by smashing a window

"It is possible that further property may have been stolen that night as a result of the building’s vulnerability," he said.

Acting Chief Inspector Jeff Handley, of Neath Port Talbot Police, said the boy would now be considered for recognition by the police service for his actions.

"His selfless actions have helped the police charge a burglary suspect who had targeted a local school for property," said Mr Handley.

"As soon as he saw the suspicious activity in the school grounds he followed the suspect and performed a citizens’ arrest to detain the man for the short time it took officers to arrive at the scene.

"When a school is burgled it affects the whole community and I am pleased that this particular crime has had a happy ending."

(PR/GK)