**Caerphilly Teens Barred from Seeing Each Other and Banned from Shops in Year-Long Court Order**
Two teenagers have been at the centre of a significant criminal behaviour case in south Wales, following a string of anti-social incidents in the Caerphilly area. As a result of repeated complaints and ongoing disturbances associated with the pair, a Cwmbran magistrates’ court has imposed wide-ranging restrictions that will remain in place for twelve months.
The young people—a boy aged 17 and a girl aged 15—have been ordered by the court not to see each other in public until May next year. Additionally, both face strict prohibitions from entering the KFC and Tesco outlets, along with their associated car parks and petrol station in Pontymister, unless accompanied by a parent or appropriate guardian. Entry to St David’s Church in Ty Sign, Risca, and surrounding areas is also barred under the order, save for occasions when they are escorted by an adult guardian.
This legal action follows what police have described as “frequent anti-social behaviour” involving both teenagers across the neighbourhoods of Risca and Pontymister. According to authorities, their actions have had a tangible impact on local residents, business owners, and community venues, prompting persistent calls for intervention. While neither teenager can be publicly identified due to legal restrictions regarding their age, the circumstances have attracted notable attention within the community.
The criminal behaviour order (CBO) was made official on Tuesday 27 May at Cwmbran Magistrates’ Court. Its provisions are intended not only to mitigate further disruptive behaviour but also to support the teenagers’ rehabilitation. As part of this process, they are set to receive guidance and support from the local Youth Offending Service over the next year.
Beyond the bans on visiting certain public places, another condition of the CBO is that neither may climb any scaffolding—a reaction, presumably, to previous incidents involving trespass or endangerment. Perhaps most notably, the order specifically mandates that the pair are not to be “in company in public with each other” until the end of May 2026.
Local law enforcement has underscored the need for this comprehensive response. PC Adam Lang, the Crime and Disorder Reduction Officer in Blackwood, stated that the order demonstrates the authorities’ attentiveness to “concerns of businesses and residents” and their desire to address persistent community issues. PC Lang commented: “By working closely with our partners, we have secured this one-year criminal behaviour order against these two teenagers who are significant demand drivers due to their frequent anti-social behaviour. The impact of their repeated offending is often felt by our communities, notably by businesses, residents, and retailers in the Risca area.”
Such cases highlight the persistent challenges that anti-social behaviour poses to local communities. While the criminal behaviour order is designed to act as a deterrent and provide consequences for repeated violations, it also signals an intent to address underlying causes and support positive change through youth intervention schemes.
Public reaction in the area has been mixed, with many expressing relief that steps are being taken to safeguard popular businesses and community spaces. Others, however, have raised broader questions about youth services, underlying social issues, and the long-term effects of isolation and restriction on troubled young people.
As the order remains in place until May 2026, authorities will monitor both teens’ adherence to its terms. Any breach could lead to further prosecution or more severe penalties. Meanwhile, community stakeholders and families are watching cautiously to see whether this intervention will bring about a safer and more harmonious environment for residents and businesses in Caerphilly’s affected neighbourhoods.