AN INDEPENDENT inquiry into grooming gangs across England and Wales has failed to identify a single location in Wales for local investigation, the Senedd has been told.

Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar raised the issue in the Siambr on Wednesday July 8, warning that known victims of child sexual exploitation in Wales are being overlooked.

Mr Millar said independent investigations had already cited Swansea, Rhyl and parts of mid Wales as areas where grooming gangs operate, with victims being trafficked to other parts of the UK. 

Addressing Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams, Mr Millar asked for assurances that she would commit to a standalone, Wales-wide inquiry if the current cross-border investigation continues to bypass Welsh locations.

Ms Williams, who also serves as social justice and equality minister, said the Welsh Government had consulted on the terms of reference to ensure the “unique Welsh context” is captured.

She confirmed that Welsh officials meet monthly with the inquiry team and have been assured that Welsh survivors will be able to contribute fully.

Ms Williams added that her government would take further action if it believes it is required.

The debate followed figures highlighted in the Senedd by Plaid Cymru’s Beca Brown on Wednesday July 2, showing an estimated 25,000 children and young people are sexually abused in Wales every year. 

Labour’s spokesperson for equalities, Shav Taj, called for ring-fenced funding to train teachers to identify sophisticated online AI deepfake networks and “sextortion” rings.

Ms Taj warned that relying on a central website without specific funding was a “passive strategy” for exhausted school staff.

Ms Williams said the government’s ten-year strategy focuses on prevention, effective protection, and supporting affected families alongside the NSPCC and the Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse.

Owner says she has done nothing wrong, but RSPCA says it cannot comment on ongoing enquiries

GREENACRES Rescue has confirmed that two dogs removed from a Milford Haven property earlier this year remain safe in its care while an investigation continues.

The Herald first reported in April that police had attended a property in the Precelly Place area following welfare concerns raised by neighbours.

At the time, Greenacres confirmed that two dogs had been admitted into its care and said it would be working with the local authority, police and RSPCA while enquiries were carried out.

The rescue has now issued a further update after renewed speculation on social media prompted a number of enquiries from concerned members of the public.

Greenacres said it had deliberately remained largely silent since the dogs first arrived in order to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and any potential legal proceedings.

With the permission of the RSPCA, the rescue said it was now able to provide a brief update to reassure those who had been worried about the animals’ welfare.

Greenacres confirmed that both dogs have remained safely in its care since the day after they were removed. During that time, they have received veterinary treatment, appropriate nutrition, rehabilitation and ongoing support from the rescue’s experienced team.

The charity said it understood public frustration that more information had not been shared sooner, but stressed that investigations involving alleged animal cruelty can be complex and may take considerable time to conclude.

Greenacres said: “As an independent, self-funded rescue, Greenacres Rescue has no greater legal powers than any other member of the public.

“Throughout every stage, the police and the RSPCA are required to act within the powers and procedures set out in the Animal Welfare Act.

“Whilst this can be frustrating for everyone involved, these legal processes are there for good reason and must be followed.”

The owner of the dogs has contacted The Herald and has asked us to report that she denies any wrongdoing. She says she has been told there will be no further action against her.

However, the RSPCA has said it is unable to discuss ongoing enquiries about specific individuals or what action may be taken.

A spokesperson said: “We’re grateful to people who report their concerns to us but we cannot comment any further as we are unable to discuss ongoing enquiries about specific individuals and what action may be taken.

“We understand how frustrating that is for animal lovers but releasing information could prejudice a future investigation or could lead to us being fined.”

Greenacres has confirmed that the Belgian Malinois has now been legally surrendered into its care. The rescue is currently assessing the most appropriate long-term plan for her future.

However, she is not available for direct rehoming and will continue to undergo further behavioural assessment and rehabilitation. Greenacres said it is working with experienced specialists to ensure the best possible outcome for the dog.

The smaller crossbreed dog remains under seizure by the RSPCA and police and continues to form part of the ongoing investigation. Ownership has not yet been transferred, and Greenacres said that position is likely to remain unchanged until the investigation and any related legal process has concluded.

The rescue has also clarified that it has not been involved in the rescue or care of any cats or kittens believed to be connected to the property. Questions about those animals should be directed to the RSPCA.

Greenacres added that a lack of public updates should not be mistaken for a lack of action.

The rescue said: “Much of this work happens behind the scenes and, by its very nature, cannot be shared publicly whilst investigations remain active.

“Our priority will always be the welfare of the animals and ensuring that ongoing legal proceedings are not compromised.

“Please be assured that both dogs are safe, are receiving the care they need, and remain a priority for everyone involved.”

Greenacres thanked the public for their support, patience and understanding while the relevant authorities complete their investigation.

A TENBY woman has been fined after magistrates found she permitted an uninsured driver to use a car in Pembroke Dock.

Christy May Brown, aged 38, of Bush Terrace, Jameston, Tenby, was not present when her case was dealt with at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jul 8).

The court heard that on November 1, 2025, Brown permitted Robert Christopher to use a Vauxhall Astra, registration KW08 KRD, on Ferry Lane, Pembroke Dock, when there was no insurance in force covering third-party risks.

The offence was proved in her absence.

Brown was fined £120 and ordered to pay a £48 victim services surcharge and £120 costs. Her driving record was endorsed with six penalty points.

Magistrates also dealt with a second matter, relating to Brown permitting Christopher to drive the same vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a driving licence. The court heard that he was a provisional licence holder, driving unaccompanied by a qualified passenger, and that no L-plates were displayed on the vehicle.

That offence was also proved in absence, but no separate penalty was imposed.

The court made a collection order and Brown was ordered to pay the £288 balance at £24 per month from August 5.

The case had earlier been reopened under section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, with a sentence imposed on May 20, 2026 set aside and a previous licence endorsement removed.