**Man and Teenage Boy Arrested After Alleged Schoolboy Assault in Newport, South Wales**
A man and a 13-year-old boy have been detained by police in Newport, following a disturbing incident where a young pupil was reportedly assaulted while returning home from school. The investigation, which rapidly gained public interest after a video began spreading on social media, continues as both suspects remain in custody.
The alleged assault took place on Tuesday afternoon, shortly after the school day ended. According to Gwent Police, the incident occurred at approximately 3.10pm on a footbridge spanning Spytty Road, in the Lliswerry area of Newport. Local authorities have confirmed that the young victim, understood to be a pupil at Lliswerry High School, has since returned to school and is receiving support from staff members.
Police responded after a video purporting to show the assault circulated widely on Facebook, prompting an immediate response and public reassurance efforts. Officers arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of affray and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The 13-year-old boy was also arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. As of Thursday evening, both individuals remained in police custody as investigations continued.
A Newport City Council spokesperson said: “The council is aware of this very concerning incident, which was reported to the police and is being fully investigated. The child affected has come back to school today, where both staff and council representatives are monitoring their wellbeing closely. We are working directly with Lliswerry High School to ensure every necessary support is provided throughout this difficult investigation.”
While probing this attack, officers were made aware of another unrelated assault involving a different child earlier that same day. Details of this secondary incident have not yet been released, but police have assured local families that every report is being pursued with urgency and thoroughness.
Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend of Gwent Police expressed thanks to the community for its cooperation during the early stages of the investigation. “We know that news of incidents such as these can cause understandable anxiety among residents,” she said. “Officers have identified and are supporting the young person seen in the video, and our enquiries are ongoing. We’re also working closely with Lliswerry High School regarding a separate incident reported earlier.”
She continued: “We appreciate the information coming forward from the community and want to remind the public that comments posted on social media can have real-world impacts on investigations and the ability to deliver justice. Speculation or attempts to identify those involved should be avoided to prevent compromising the legal process.”
Residents with information about the incident are encouraged to contact police via 101 or by sending a direct message on social media, quoting reference log 2500152173. Anonymity can be maintained by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
In a climate where school safety is a growing concern, both Newport City Council and Gwent Police have promised to keep lines of communication open, urging parents and pupils to report any worries or further information. Community support has been described as pivotal in helping investigators bring clarity to these events.
As the story develops, the city’s response highlights concerns about the spread of distressing material on social networks. Authorities are also reinforcing the message that support is available for any young people who may be affected, as safeguarding remains a shared priority between schools, families, and law enforcement.
The investigation is ongoing and updates will be provided as soon as more information is available, police said. In the meantime, the community is encouraged to support one another and to trust in the process as the facts surrounding the case are established.