**Police Investigate Two Separate Alleged Schoolboy Assaults in Newport**
A police inquiry is under way in Newport after video footage circulating on social media appeared to show a school pupil from Lliswerry High School being assaulted. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident. Gwent Police have also confirmed investigations into a second, separate alleged assault involving another child occurring earlier the same day.
The first incident came to public attention after a video was widely shared on Facebook. The footage reportedly shows a boy in school uniform, believed to be a student at Lliswerry High, restrained by an adult while being confronted and allegedly attacked by a group of young people. Concerns about the violence depicted have prompted a swift response from the authorities.
Details around the second incident remain limited, but police say that it too involves a child who was reportedly assaulted earlier that day. Both alleged cases have heightened anxieties among parents and the wider community, who have called for assurances around pupil safety in the area.
Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend issued a statement on Wednesday, confirming: “We have now identified the young person featured in the online video, and are providing support to him while our investigation proceeds. Two people have been taken into custody in connection with the alleged assault and remain there at this time.”
She continued: “We are aware of a separate report relating to another pupil who was also allegedly assaulted earlier that day. I want to reassure residents that a dedicated team of officers are working on both cases, and that our inquiries are ongoing. These incidents are understandably worrying for parents, carers and school staff, and we appreciate the information that communities have shared thus far.”
The handling of such incidents, particularly those captured on camera and spread online, has become a source of concern for both authorities and educators. Such content can rapidly stir anxiety and speculation, often before the facts have been established. Police are urging the public to avoid making assumptions online or sharing unverified accounts, which could complicate the investigation.
Assistant Chief Constable Townsend added: “No matter how minor a detail may seem, it could be critical for our investigation. We urge anyone with information to come forward directly, rather than discussing it on social media.”
Members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to contact Gwent Police on 101, or to send a direct message referencing log 444 of 14 May. Alternatively, tip-offs can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.
Incidents of alleged violence among school-aged children are a growing concern for authorities nationwide. In Newport, this latest case has prompted renewed debate around youth safety and behaviour in and around schools. Education professionals and local leaders are liaising with police to ensure the well-being of all pupils in the wake of the events.
Parents, students, and local residents await further updates as the police investigation continues. Authorities stress that every effort is being made to establish the circumstances around these incidents, and that appropriate action will be taken once all the facts are known.
For ongoing updates, residents are encouraged to subscribe to relevant local newsletters and to remain engaged with official police channels, rather than relying on social media speculation. The investigations remain active, and more information will be provided as developments unfold.