Police face ‘large-scale disorder’ as rioters throw fireworks at scene of crash in Cardiff

The scene of a serious traffic collision in Cardiff descended into mayhem on Monday evening as rioters threw missiles, including fireworks, at police.

At least two cars were set on fire as trouble flared for hours, involving scores of youths, many covering their faces with masks.

Officers were called to Snowden Road in Ely shortly after 6pm on Monday. Police said the collision “had already occurred when officers arrived”.

Rioters were still on the streets nine hours later.

Footage livestreamed on YouTube showed people throwing fireworks and other missiles at a line of police officers with riot shields who were blocking one end of the street.

A fire was burning and a helicopter could be heard hovering overhead.

Shortly before midnight a car was set on fire, while a second vehicle was overturned and set ablaze.

A member of the public was attacked due to rioters thinking they were an undercover officer, according to one of the senior officers at the scene.

The public were warned the road was closed between Wilson Road and Jackson Road and urged to avoid the area.

At 11.15pm, South Wales Police said officers remained at the scene to manage “large scale disorder”.

It added: “Officers remain on scene to manage a large scale disorder. Again, we urge anyone involved or watching to leave immediately. We understand the concern from local residents and we ask you to stay indoors.”

Police, including mounted officers on horseback, were seen outside Ely police station in the early hours of Tuesday after suggestions it could be targeted.

Shortly before 3am, rioters moved down Highmead Road in Ely, following by police who were trying to disperse them.

The rioters continued to throw missiles and set cars alight.

One resident of Highmead Road, who did not want to be named, told the PA news agency: “Enough is enough now. This has gone beyond.

“When people are making fun of what’s happening on social media it’s crossed a line.”