Op Bang - Halloween and Bonfire night

Op Bang - Halloween and Bonfire night

Pumpkin-carving, fancy dress and spectacular firework displays; Halloween and Bonfire Night are often highlights in the family calendar.

But with a small minority seeing the autumnal events as an excuse to act in an antisocial manner, the period can leave many in our communities feeling anxious, intimidated and fearful. 

With that in mind, South Wales Police will once again be supporting Op Bang, helping our communities to enjoy the festivities safely while asking them to remember that Halloween and Bonfire Night are Not Fun For Everyone.

The period is traditionally extremely busy for the emergency services; last year South Wales Police received 1,778 calls for service* on Halloween, October 31st, and a further 1,721 on November 5th, Bonfire Night. 

Of those calls, 840 were via the emergency 999 number on Halloween, while 663 emergency calls were received on Bonfire Night. 

While demand often peaks on those dates, the period before, during and after those dates is also often extremely busy, placing additional demand on police and partners.

Our officers will continue to be visible in our communities in the run up to, and during, the festivities to help prevent and detect antisocial behaviour (ASB) and disorder.

Neighbourhood teams will be working closely with local authority partners and retailers during the next few weeks, reminding everyone of their responsibilities and sharing materials which can be displayed in shops to how a united front against ASB.

Who to contact

To help us keep our lines free for those who need us most, please ensure you’re contacting the most relevant agency and using the most appropriate means of contact.

Concerns around antisocial behaviour and public safety is a matter for the police. If not an emergency, you can contact us via the following means:

In an emergency, always dial 999.