CCTV hunt after shop worker assaulted in Swansea city centre robbery

Officers were called to the Spar on Caer Street near Castle Square at around 8.30pm on Saturday night (January 24) after reports that a group had entered the shop before a quantity of alcohol was stolen. During the incident, a member of staff was attacked, leaving workers and shoppers shaken.

Police have now released a CCTV image of a male they want to speak to in connection with the robbery. The individual — who appears to be a teenage boy — was captured on the store’s security cameras shortly before the incident. Officers are urging anyone who recognises him to come forward immediately.

The robbery happened at a busy time for the city centre, with many people heading home from work or gathering for weekend nights out. Locals say the incident has left staff frightened and residents concerned about rising anti‑social behaviour in the area.

A police spokesperson confirmed that four teenage boys — from Swansea, Carmarthen, Llanelli and Ceredigion — have already been arrested on suspicion of robbery and remain in custody while enquiries continue. Detectives are now working to establish the full circumstances of the incident and identify everyone involved.

The force says the CCTV male may have vital information that could help the investigation.

A South Wales Police spokesperson said:

“We need to speak to the male in the CCTV image in connection with a robbery at a shop in Swansea city centre. A shop worker was assaulted and alcohol was stolen. Anyone who recognises him is urged to contact us quoting reference 2600025230.”

The Spar store sits just yards from some of the busiest pedestrian routes in the city, and officers believe someone will know exactly who the individual is.

Residents have taken to social media to express anger at the attack, with many calling for tougher action on youth crime and better protection for shop workers who face increasing levels of abuse and violence.

Police are appealing for anyone with information — no matter how small — to get in touch.

Anyone who recognises the male in the CCTV images, or who was in the area at the time, is asked to contact South Wales Police quoting reference 2600025230.

Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers.

New route announced for Swansea Christmas Parade

The parade begins at 5pm at the Guildhall, where Santa will illuminate the building with a red glow before a fireworks display signals the start of the evening.

Parade route through the city

From the Guildhall, the parade will travel down St Helen’s Road, along the Kingsway, College Street, Castle Street and Caer Street, before finishing on Princess Way.

More than 40 community groups, colourful floats and beloved characters from fairytales and comic books – including Cinderella and Rapunzel – will join the procession. Santa and Mrs Claus will wave from their magical sleigh as the parade makes its way through the city.

Entertainment and lights switch‑on

Live entertainment will take place on two stages: one at the Guildhall and the traditional stage outside the Dragon Hotel, where a new Christmas tree will stand. Santa will ceremoniously switch on Swansea’s Christmas lights before another fireworks display lights up the night sky.

Professional entertainers, fairytale characters and superheroes will be on hand to keep children and adults entertained throughout the evening.

Council leader welcomes new route

Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said:

“The Swansea Christmas Parade is one of the city’s most cherished events – a chance for our communities to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season.

This year’s new route brings exciting opportunities to experience the magic from fresh perspectives and it promises to be a truly unforgettable evening.”

He added that the parade is the perfect opportunity to start Christmas celebrations, alongside visits to Waterfront Winterland with its ice rink and alpine bar, and the Victorian Christmas Market offering artisan gifts and festive treats.

Cllr Stewart said the parade rounds off another strong year of council‑delivered events, including the Wales Airshow, IRONMAN, Swansea Arts Weekend and Croeso.

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