### Onlookers Describe ‘Terrifying’ Machete Incident in Port Talbot
A shocking confrontation unfolded in Port Talbot earlier this year, leaving witnesses ‘petrified’ as a motorcyclist brandished a machete and threatened a group of young people in broad daylight. The alarming event, which drew concern from both onlookers and authorities, has since led to a court case, casting a spotlight on the persistent issue of bladed weapons in public places.
The incident occurred at approximately 2pm on 22 January, according to evidence presented at Swansea Crown Court. The defendant, James Driver, 20, armed himself with a foot-long machete during the altercation. Reports confirmed that Driver not only threatened individuals with violence but also caused chaos on local roads as he attempted to evade the scene.
Prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton outlined how Driver initially attended a property belonging to the grandmother of someone who had previously sold him a motorcycle. Wearing a balaclava under his helmet, he was nevertheless recognised by the complainant—prompting a terse exchange of words before Driver departed. Later the same day, the group was in the property’s garage when Driver returned, revving his motorcycle engine and beeping his horn.
Eyewitnesses recounted that Driver called out to the group, insisting “Let’s have it straight now,” and produced a large machete when accused of carrying knives. He then launched himself off his bike, brandishing the weapon and reportedly shouting: “Come on then, I am going to stab you!” The group escaped into the house, locking the door behind them in fear for their safety.
A couple, returning home from a day at Aberavon beach, watched the scene unfold from their car. The driver subsequently described being “petrified,” so much so that he locked the car doors as a precaution. Believing his manoeuvre may have disrupted the pursuit, the driver proceeded to reverse out of the cul-de-sac, following Driver as he sped away from the property.
Their account details how Driver drove recklessly along Afan Way, weaving dangerously around vehicles on a busy roundabout, and even mounting a pedestrian walkway leading to a nearby supermarket. The couple lost sight of him in the Lidl car park and immediately contacted police, reporting what they’d witnessed and expressing concern for the safety of passers-by, as Driver’s erratic driving could easily have resulted in injuries.
Police acted swiftly, locating Driver’s motorcycle outside his home and subsequently arresting him. Officers found a motorcycle jacket and the machete used in the incident in his hallway. During police interviews, Driver admitted returning to the property ‘for self-defence’, claiming he had been threatened earlier with a Samurai sword. He acknowledged arming himself with the machete and a metal pole before confronting the group.
Driver, of Heol Illtyd, Caewern, Neath, appeared for sentencing via videolink, having already pleaded guilty to charges of affray, possession of a bladed article, possession of an offensive weapon, and dangerous driving. The court learned of his prior convictions relating to motoring offences. Defence barrister Emily Bennett told the court that Driver regretted his actions, had apologised, and now hoped to move away from previous peer influences, focusing on securing employment and turning his life around.
Despite these mitigating statements, Judge Catherine Richards emphasised the gravity of the offence, pointing out the very real dangers inherent in bringing a machete to a public disturbance. She remarked on the potentially fatal consequences such actions could carry, and with a reduction for his early guilty pleas, sentenced Driver to 16 months’ detention. He is to serve up to 40% in custody and the remainder on licence, with a 15-month driving ban and the requirement to pass an extended test before regaining his licence.
This case has heightened concerns locally and nationally about knife crime and the risks posed by dangerous driving, both of which can have lasting effects on communities and victims. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of robust legal responses and community vigilance in the face of violent crime.