Welsh primary school locked down as police recover firearm nearby

A primary school in Risca, located in the Caerphilly borough, found itself on lockdown today following reports of a man carrying an air rifle bag nearby. The lockdown at Risca Primary School was initiated around 9 am after receiving advice from the police in response to an incident in the community. There were no direct threats made to the school, and the lockdown procedures were precautionary measures, according to the council.

Simultaneously, reports indicated that Coleg Gwent, located nearby, also implemented lockdown procedures. Gwent Police confirmed receiving reports of a man seen with an air rifle bag in the Dan y Graig Road area around 9 am. Upon their arrival, officers conducted a search of the area and successfully recovered a firearm.

The headteacher of Risca Primary School, Mrs. Farley, reassured parents in a letter that all children and staff were safely inside the building and emphasized that the lockdown was a precautionary measure with no immediate danger to anyone. Gwent Police clarified that no threats were directed at the public, and schools or colleges were not specifically advised to implement lockdown measures.

A spokesperson from Caerphilly Council reiterated that the school acted proactively by initiating lockdown procedures based on advice from the police. They emphasized that there was no direct threat to the school, and all necessary protocols were followed accordingly. Furthermore, Gwent Police stated that the firearm recovered during the search had been safely secured.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of swift and cautious responses to ensure the safety of school communities. The collaborative efforts between the school, the police, and the local authorities demonstrate the readiness and effectiveness in handling such situations. Parents and residents can find comfort in the swift actions taken to safeguard everyone involved.

As more details emerge regarding the incident, it is crucial for all parties to remain vigilant and cooperative in upholding the security and well-being of the community. The successful recovery of the firearm underscores the significance of quick police intervention and thorough search operations in maintaining public safety during such events.