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Frostbite series sets sail at Neyland Yacht Club despite weather concerns

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THE 2025 FROSTBITE SERIES at Neyland Yacht Club (NYC) kicked off with an impressive display of skill and determination, despite initial forecasts of dead calm threatening to cancel the first race.

A fleet of 14 crews gathered on Neyland’s waters and, by mid-afternoon, enjoyed a fresh breeze ranging from 10 to 23 knots from the south. The triangular course, set just east of the club, began with a challenging downwind start near the marina car park, followed by an upwind leg to Neyland Spit, and concluded with a broad reach back to the club line.

Intense competition in Division 1

The start was clean, with Simon G in his International Moth surging ahead to lead the fleet at the first mark. Hot on his heels were Alan G and Annie R in their Dart 18, while Geoff T, tactically starting at the pin end closer to shore, rounded in third.

Drama unfolded early as Kiera E and Simon T, racing their 29er, capsized when caught off-guard by a sudden gust while hoisting their spinnaker.

Despite close battles throughout, the leading positions remained largely unchanged by the end of the first lap. Ross P, sailing a Solution, engaged in a fierce duel with a Supernova, with both boats swapping minor leads during different legs. Alec D, piloting her ILCA 6 with precision and calm, rounded off the Division 1 finishers.

Simon G’s International Moth completed the four-lap course at an impressive average lap time of 2 minutes 37 seconds. However, the question of whether this blistering pace would secure victory on corrected time lingered.

In the end, the Dart 18’s consistent speed and strong performance gave Alan G and Annie R the win on corrected time, defying conventional wisdom that catamarans struggle in Neyland’s waters. The Solution claimed second place, followed by the Supernova in third, Alec D’s ILCA 6 in fourth, and the International Moth rounding out the top five.

Division 2: Tight battles and a new leader

Division 2 saw a promising start as Isabelle N led the fleet of Teras to the first mark, navigating the challenging tidal conditions with confidence. However, her race was cut short when her lower mast snapped, forcing her to retire.

Liam F seized the opportunity, taking the lead ahead of Cerise L, Anwen S, and Ted S. Sailing with the larger Pro rig for the first time, Liam showcased impressive skill and steadily extended his lead over the next two laps.

The Tera fleet displayed remarkable boat handling, particularly when tackling the turbulent waters at the start of the beat, where the outgoing tide collided with a back eddy near the shore.

Liam F finished first in Division 2, followed by Cerise L in second, Anwen S in third, and Ted S in fourth.

Delayed start cancels second race

The delayed start of the first race meant there wasn’t enough time to hold a second race. Nevertheless, the day ended on a high note, with all participants applauding the challenging conditions and thrilling competition.

Crime

35 arrests as police disrupt £12 million cannabis operation

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DYFED-POWYS POLICE has carried out its most significant drugs operation to date, seizing more than £12 million worth of cannabis and dismantling 37 large-scale cannabis farms across the force area. The crackdown, named Operation Scotney, has resulted in 35 arrests and the disruption of organised crime gangs operating in rural communities.

Cannabis farm found at Main Street, Pembroke (Picture: M Cavaney/Herald)

Operation Scotney

Raiding sites including former schools, empty town centre shops, and a disused newspaper office, police have uncovered thousands of cannabis plants and tonnes of commercial heating and lighting equipment.

Detective Chief Inspector Rich Lewis explained how the operation began: “Through proactive policing, we noticed a rise in large-scale cannabis factories being discovered in seemingly unrelated locations. The scale was unprecedented, with thousands of plants found in each warrant. It quickly became clear that these factories were linked, run by organised crime groups from outside the force area, aiming to evade detection in our rural towns.”

In response, Operation Scotney was launched in early 2024, bringing together detectives, intelligence experts, and proactive policing officers to locate and disrupt these operations before the cannabis could be cultivated.

Police at the former Woolworth’s building, Pembroke Dock (Image: Herald)

Organised crime hiding in plain sight

The criminal networks behind these farms have been using increasingly brazen tactics, setting up operations in town centres and even on the same street as a police station. DCI Lewis said: “We’ve found cannabis factories in former schools, empty shops, and a disused newspaper office, all in public areas where it would be difficult to go unnoticed. These gangs disguise themselves as construction workers or landlords, wearing high-visibility vests and moving large boxes into buildings in broad daylight to avoid suspicion.”

A striking example occurred in Newcastle Emlyn, where officers discovered 400 cannabis plants just four doors down from the local police station.

Passers by said that the former Mojo’s in Milford Haven was “stinking of skunk” (Picture: Herald)

Crackdown yields major arrests

Over the past year, Operation Scotney has led to the arrests of 35 individuals. Twenty-nine have been jailed, four are awaiting sentencing, two are yet to enter pleas, and two others have been deported.

Carmarthenshire court results:

  • King Street, Carmarthen:
    • Jurgen Kodra: Jailed for 2 years, 4 months for production of cannabis.
  • Old Llangunnor Road, Carmarthen:
    • Nurdin Hoxha: Charged with production of cannabis – sentencing on March 7.
  • Gordon Road, Llanelli:
    • Argil Bushi: Jailed for 20 months for production of cannabis.
    • Aldi Xhaferri: Jailed for 9 months for production of cannabis.
  • Craddock Street, Llanelli:
    • Blerjan Dedja: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.
  • Bigyn Road, Llanelli:
    • Franko Sulovari: Jailed for 18 months for production of cannabis.
  • Mountain Gate Inn, Ammanford:
    • Beni Mirashi: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.
  • Maes Y Wern, Carway:
    • Viktor Gjeloshi: Jailed for 15 months for production of cannabis.
    • Nikoll Necaj: Jailed for 6 months for production of cannabis.
    • Eduart Nenfusho: Jailed for 15 months for production of cannabis.
  • Vaughan Street, Llanelli:
    • Hazis Rapi: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.

Ceredigion court results:

  • Former Llandysul school:
    • Alfred Perkola: Conspiracy to supply and possession with intent to supply cannabis. Sentencing on February 26, 2025.
    • Aldi Gjegjaj: Conspiracy to supply and possession with intent to supply cannabis. Sentencing on February 26, 2025.
  • Former Llandysul school (second warrant):
    • Armeld Troski: Jailed for 40 months for production of cannabis.
    • Njazi Gjana: Jailed for 30 months for production of cannabis.
    • Ervin Gjana: Jailed for 30 months for production of cannabis.

Pembrokeshire court results:

  • Honeyborough Industrial Estate, Neyland:
    • Zhupa Gentian: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.
    • Ergest Mucopata: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.
  • Stop search, Cleddau Bridge:
    • Albert Nikolla: Jailed for 4 years, 3 months for possession with intent to supply and supply of cocaine.
    • Pajtim Meta: Jailed for 5 years for possession with intent to supply and supply of cocaine.
  • India Row, Monkton, Pembroke:
    • Sergej Zakacura: Jailed for 7 years, 3 months for production of cannabis.
  • North Crescent, Haverfordwest:
    • Shahin Mustaj: Jailed for 8 months for production of cannabis.
  • Treowen Road, Pennar, Pembroke Dock:
    • Ervis Kerciku: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.
  • JP Scaffolding yard, Honeyborough:
    • Flamur Vengo: Jailed for 24 months for production of cannabis.
    • Nertil Dallenga: Jailed for 24 months for production of cannabis.
  • Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock:
    • Armando Beti: Jailed for 2 years, 8 months for being concerned in production of cannabis.
  • Main Street, Pembroke:
    • Amarildo Daja: Jailed for 12 months for being concerned in production of cannabis.
  • Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock:
    • Esmirald Dedej: Charged with production of cannabis and remanded in custody.
    • Arsen Tanasica: Jailed for 12 months for production of cannabis.

Powys court results:

  • Former County Times building, Welshpool:
    • Dino Marku: Jailed for 18 months for production of cannabis.
  • Former County Times building (second warrant):
    • Kastriot Gega: Jailed for 6 months for production of cannabis.
  • Broad Street, Welshpool:
    • Alban Qemalli: Jailed for 22 months for being concerned in production of cannabis.
  • High Street, Welshpool:
    • Kladji Toci: Jailed for 16 months for being concerned in production of cannabis.
  • Former HSBC bank, Llandrindod Wells:
    • Two men deported following arrest.

The force says it remains committed to disrupting organised crime and ensuring the safety of local communities.

Police officer at an illegal cannabis farm (Pic: Herald File image)

Can you help the police?

The most frequent signs of a cannabis factory are:

  • HEAT: Cannabis plants need heat to grow. You may see condensation on windows or notice that ice and snow is missing on rooftops in the winter.
  • SMELL: Cannabis plants have a strong smell, which is stronger in the last three months of growth.
  • RUBBISH: Lots of ‘garden’ rubbish dumped outside such as plant pots, compost and empty plant food containers.
  • LIGHT: Cannabis needs bright lights 24 hours a day to grow. You may also hear noise from fans.
  • SECRECY: Windows might be covered up to hide illegal activity, or extra locks installed.
  • ELECTRICITY: Your street may be suffering from frequent and unusual power cuts as electricity meters are bypassed.
  • VISITORS: Are people coming and going, possibly at odd hours? Are the lights constantly on but nobody appears to be there?

If you have any information or concerns to share, contact Dyfed-Powys Police in the following ways:

Report online | https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contact-us/

Email | [email protected]

Call | 101

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

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News

Senedd Member praises local community initiative in Haverfordwest

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SENEDD Member Paul Davies has praised Feed the Community as a “fantastic initiative” during a recent visit to Haverhub in Haverfordwest. The project, which is backed by several local organisations, offers free hot meals and activities to residents.

Feed the Community is organised by Councillors Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner and Dani Thomas-Turner, with support from Haverfordwest Town Council.

Mr Davies said: “Feed the Community is a fantastic initiative and a great example of the local community coming together to create inclusive and welcoming events.”

He added: “It’s a wonderful opportunity for local businesses and charities to connect with residents and strengthen community ties. The event was well attended, and I was pleased to meet residents, business representatives, and volunteers. The positive atmosphere at the Hub was inspiring, and I was delighted to experience it firsthand.”

Pictured above: Paul Davies is seen with organisers Cllr Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner and Cllr Dani Thomas-Turner. 

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Crime

More than 2,000 child sexual abuse image crimes recorded in Wales last year

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Private messaging platforms exploited by criminals

MORE than 2,000 child sexual abuse image offences were recorded by police forces in Wales over the past year, according to Home Office data. The figures highlight the exploitation of private messaging platforms by criminals to share illegal material, prompting renewed calls for stronger regulations.

The NSPCC has urged the UK Government to take decisive action to protect children in private messaging environments. The charity, along with Barnardo’s and the Marie Collins Foundation, has written to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Science, Innovation, and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, calling for Ofcom’s approach to private messaging to be strengthened.

Six offences recorded daily

The data shows that 2,194 child sexual abuse image crimes were recorded by Welsh police forces in 2023/24, equating to around six offences per day.

  • Dyfed-Powys Police recorded 192 offences.
  • South Wales Police recorded 964 offences.
  • North Wales Police recorded 535 offences.
  • Gwent Police recorded 503 offences.

A separate Freedom of Information request by the NSPCC revealed that, in cases where police documented the platform used by perpetrators, half (50%) of offences occurred on Snapchat. Meta platforms accounted for a quarter of cases, with 11% on Instagram, 7% on Facebook, and 6% on WhatsApp.

Call for stronger protections

In their letter to the Government, child protection charities expressed concerns over Ofcom’s Illegal Harms Code of Practice, published in December 2024. The charities argue that the code does not go far enough to protect children from the worst forms of abuse on private messaging services, despite the Online Safety Act aiming to address such risks.

Ofcom has stated that platforms are only required to remove illegal content where it is ‘technically feasible’. However, campaigners warn that this loophole allows some services to avoid implementing basic protections for children.

Police data suggests that private messaging platforms are involved in more child sexual abuse image crimes than any other type of online platform. Offenders exploit the secrecy of these services to target children and avoid detection.

The role of end-to-end encryption

The NSPCC is calling on the UK Government to push Ofcom to strengthen its codes of practice and ensure online safety regulations adequately tackle this issue. The charity also wants private messaging services, including those using end-to-end encryption, to introduce robust safeguards.

End-to-end encryption is a secure communication system where only the sender and recipient can access messages, preventing service providers from detecting illegal content. This, campaigners argue, creates a ‘safe haven’ for child abusers.

Childline reports rise in cases

Data from Childline provides further evidence of the dangers of private messaging platforms. Last year, the service delivered 903 counselling sessions to children experiencing blackmail or threats to expose or share sexual images online—a 7% increase compared to 2022/23.

One 13-year-old girl who sought help from Childline said: “I sent nude pics and videos to a stranger I met on Snapchat. I think he’s in his thirties. I don’t know what to do next. I told him I didn’t want to send him any more pictures and he started threatening me, telling me that he’ll post the pictures online. I’m feeling really angry with myself and lonely. I would like support from my friends, but I don’t want to talk to them about it as I’m worried about being judged.”

NSPCC chief executive’s warning

Chris Sherwood, NSPCC Chief Executive, said: “These offences cause tremendous harm and distress to children, with much of this illegal material being repeatedly shared and viewed online. It is an outrage that in 2025 we are still seeing a blatant disregard from tech companies to prevent this illegal content from proliferating on their sites.

“Having separate rules for private messaging services lets tech bosses off the hook from putting robust protections in place. This enables crimes to continue to flourish on their platforms even though we now have the Online Safety Act.”

He added: “The Government must set out how they will take a bold stand against abuse on private messaging services and hold tech companies accountable for keeping children safe, even if it requires changes to the platform’s design. There can be no excuse for inaction or delay.”

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