North Wales Police issued a stern warning after a group of youths set off a firework inside an Aldi store in Flint, Wales. The incident, which occurred on Friday, November 1, prompted a response from a fire engine at the supermarket on Chester Street. Reports indicated that the youths ignited the firework as a diversion to facilitate the theft of more fireworks within the store. Witnesses recounted witnessing smoke billowing inside the store, with some describing the object as a “smoke grenade” thrown into the premises by the youths.
The authorities commented on the incident, highlighting the misguided nature of the youths’ actions, as the display boxes in the store did not contain actual fireworks for sale. The police issued a statement saying, “We hope everyone enjoyed the fireworks display in Flint last night – one not so enjoyable was from a group of youths who set off a firework in a store so they could steal the fireworks display. Obviously they didn’t realise they don’t keep the real fireworks on display.”
Following the incident at Aldi, additional reports surfaced of disruptive behaviour in the town over the following days. One resident shared a Ring doorbell video online, showing a youth damaging Halloween decorations with a toy Viking-style double-bladed axe. The homeowner, considering whether to continue setting up displays in the future, urged the culprit to return to apologise and cover the costs of the damage caused.
Residents of Flint also observed youths carelessly lighting fireworks around the town centre, prompting concerns regarding public safety. North Wales Police confirmed responding to 57 calls, with nine related to anti-social behaviour. Specific mention was made of the Aldi incident, cautioning that the individuals involved were known to the authorities despite attempts to conceal their identity.
In a separate incident in Holywell, police reported youths setting off fireworks on High Street, with one individual seen wearing a face covering. The police message to the perpetrator wearing a balaclava highlighted the futility of attempting to evade identification, stating, “The balaclava does nothing for you when we’ve known you since you were nine-years-old. See you later on.”
North Wales Police have appealed to the public for information regarding the Aldi incident, urging witnesses or those with relevant knowledge to come forward by contacting the authorities at 101 and referencing the incident with the unique reference number provided.
The series of incidents involving disruptive behaviour and vandalism in Flint serves as a reminder of the importance of community safety and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure incidents of this nature are swiftly addressed and prevented in the future.