**Cardiff Independent Businesses Rally After Early Morning Break-In Attempts**
A trio of Cardiff-based independent businesses are counting the cost of attempted burglaries after being targeted in the early hours of Monday. South Wales Police have launched an investigation into the succession of incidents which took place around 1:53am on 2 June along Clearwater Way in the Lakeside area, a community not far from Roath Park.
The businesses broken into were Ballers Pizza, Mediterranean restaurant BODEGA, and the neighbourhood favourite, State of Love and Trust, an off-licence and bar. While no goods were believed to have been taken, the attempts left the owners facing damaged premises and a lingering sense of unease. The damage, rather than theft, was the major toll for all three.
Benito Martinez, co-owner of both Ballers and BODEGA, expressed both relief and frustration in the wake of the events. “Nothing was stolen, which is fortunate. We run cashless operations and suspect the intruders were looking for cash. The main consequence has been the trouble and repairs we now face,” Mr Martinez explained.
He went on to outline the challenges of operating without the safety net enjoyed by larger chains. “As independent owners, we deal with everything ourselves—from crisis response to repairs. There’s no central office to step in. When something goes wrong, it’s only us and our team standing between closure and survival. These moments really test your resolve.”
Discovering the signs of forced entry was a draining experience, Mr Martinez admitted, yet he was quick to commend the resilience of his staff: “Fatigued, frustrated, but also genuinely proud. Our team has come together, turning up early and staying late to get us back on our feet. There’s a strong sense of unity—these incidents won’t defeat us.”
Across the neighbourhood, the impact of these crimes was met with local solidarity. Many residents offered messages of support, with some popping by to offer their apologies and encouragement in person. “That’s the heart of being a local business—you are part of the fabric of the community,” said Mr Martinez.
Despite the interruption, businesses remained open, though a degree of disruption lingered. Ballers recommenced trading with what Mr Martinez described as “battle scars,” and BODEGA stayed open, though nerves had plainly been rattled. “We’re doing repairs and carrying on regardless,” he concluded.
The bar and off-licence State of Love and Trust also addressed the incident on social media, revealing wryly: “At 1.57am this morning we had the privilege of ticking off ‘Burglary’ on our business bingo card. We are a card and cash premises, though cleared daily, so the intruder did take something. To be honest, we might have preferred if they’d left with a nice bottle of wine as a prize!”
The reality of running small, independent businesses continues to be a challenge in the current climate, with owners pointing to rising costs, reduced margins, and ever-increasing demands. “People often don’t see the full picture of what independent operators endure—each setback, every late-night call, the immediate scramble to secure premises and return to normal.”
South Wales Police confirmed ongoing investigations and appealed for information. A force spokesperson stated: “We are pursuing leads after reports of commercial break-ins at approximately 1.53am on 2 June. Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or can assist with enquiries is encouraged to contact 101 quoting reference 2500173350. We understand burglary is traumatic for business owners, and are committed to identifying those responsible.”
The message from local businesses is clear—a reminder to would-be intruders that no cash is kept on-site, and acts like these will not be enough to break community spirit. As a city known for its vibrant independent scene, Cardiff once again witnesses local businesses standing together, repairing damage and refusing to allow criminal acts to dictate their future. Owners encourage vigilance and mutual support, reiterating that independent hospitality delivers character and soul to the city, and will not be easily driven out by adversity.