Operation Restore: Flintshire police respond to fireworks and off road bike incidents

Police officers in North Flintshire reported a series of incidents during last night’s patrols as part of Operation Restore, a targeted campaign to address antisocial behaviour in the community.

Throughout the shift, officers responded to several calls involving the misuse of fireworks and illegal off-road bikes.

The night began with reports of youths setting off fireworks in Deeside, prompting officers to patrol the area. Though no suspects were located, burnt-out fireworks were found at the scene. Officers noted that the suspects appeared to have fled upon spotting the police.

Later, a more concerning incident involved three to four off-road bikes carrying helmetless riders on Mold Road, with reports indicating that the individuals were also launching fireworks at cars.

The incident raised significant safety concerns, with officers emphasising that pursuing the bikes through the streets could increase the risk of collisions and injuries to both riders and the public. Police are appealing for public assistance in identifying the individuals involved.

“The risk level to these youths is so high,” an officer noted in a report shared on the Flintshire North Facebook page. “We are working proactively to identify them and get them off the road, but the reality is we’re not going to be chasing them through the streets. They will end up in a collision, and likely, they and others will be hurt.”

Police encourage anyone with relevant information to contact Crimestoppers anonymously.

The patrol continued with officers stopping in Flint, where they found a family setting off fireworks on the grounds of Flint Castle. “We’ve obtained details and we’ll check if there’s any damage caused in the light of day,” Officer 3604 said.

In addition, officers visited fire crews at a scene where a controlled fire had escalated. Firefighters managed to reduce the blaze and provided guidance to those involved on handling such fires safely.

The patrol wrapped up without any significant incidents in Holywell, as Neighbourhood Policing Teams monitored the area with no reported disturbances.

Anyone with information about off-road bikes can contact North Wales Police via 101 or the web live chat at http://www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/chat-support.aspx.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.