**Long-Term Bans Issued to Repeat Offenders to Protect Swansea and Neath Port Talbot Town Centres**
Local authorities in south Wales have adopted a robust approach to tackling repeat theft and shoplifting, as five habitual offenders from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot face multi-year bans restricting their movement and activity in town and city centres. The individuals have all been handed Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs), following previous convictions or ongoing prison sentences for theft-related crimes.
The CBOs, secured by South Wales Police through the concerted efforts of the Swansea City Neighbourhood Policing Teams, are part of the force’s ongoing Operation Viscaria – an initiative aimed at curbing anti-social behaviour and persistent offending in urban areas. According to police officials, the specific restrictions placed upon these offenders are designed to deter further crimes and protect local businesses that have repeatedly fallen victim to theft.
Details released by the authorities confirm that three of the offenders – Rebecca Webber, aged 30, Joshua Bassett, aged 26, and Daniel Rice, aged 31 – are already the subject of CBOs. Each is barred from certain locations in Swansea city or Port Talbot town until at least 2027. Further restrictions will soon apply to Wilby Smith, aged 40, and Joseph Cullen, aged 25, once they complete their current custodial sentences. Smith’s order will last until September 2026, and Cullen’s until January 2028.
Police have warned that any breach of these orders will constitute a criminal offence and could result in harsher penalties for the individuals involved. “The CBOs place explicit restrictions on behaviour in our city and town centres, with the aim of prohibiting re-offending,” a South Wales Police spokesperson commented. “Those who breach these conditions risk immediate arrest and prosecution.”
Operation Viscaria, under which these latest orders form only one element, is credited with bolstering visible policing and supporting a ‘zero tolerance’ attitude toward anti-social conduct and shoplifting. Authorities hope that such a visible stance will not only deter would-be offenders but will also alleviate the anxieties of retail businesses and the wider public, many of whom have reported increased concern over local crime rates.
Neighbourhood policing sergeant Jonathan Shaddick spoke about the ongoing challenges of urban crime, highlighting the dedication of officers throughout the region. “Our work through Operation Viscaria showcases the lengths to which South Wales Police will go to reduce criminality in the heart of our communities,” Sergeant Shaddick said. “The imposition of CBOs ensures added protection for those areas most frequently affected, while sending a clear message to repeat offenders that their actions will not be tolerated.”
Swansea and Port Talbot, both known for their vibrant town centres, have experienced a persistent problem with shoplifting and related crimes in recent years. Many local business owners have welcomed the increased use of CBOs, hoping that more stringent law enforcement will provide some respite and foster a safer environment for customers and traders alike.
Community members are actively being encouraged to maintain communication with their neighbourhood police teams, reporting any suspicious activity or areas of concern. Authorities stress that public engagement remains vital for the ongoing success of initiatives like Operation Viscaria and to ensure that law-abiding citizens can feel safe when visiting their city centres.
This concerted effort by police and local partners reflects an ongoing commitment to cracking down on persistent offenders and maintaining the economic and social vibrancy of local high streets. As the region continues to address the challenges posed by repeat criminal behaviour, the issuing of these latest CBOs signals a proactive stance and renewed hope for lasting change.