Council bin lorry allegedly stolen by three youths who then crash into wall

Police are investigating after three youths allegedly stole a Neath Port Talbot Council bin lorry while workers were on a break.

Shortly after taking the vehicle, which had been parked on Brynhyfryd Road in Briton Ferry, it crashed into the wall of a bridge.

Local residents report hearing “a loud bang” that “sounded like a house had exploded”.

A spokesperson for Neath Port Talbot Council said: “Soon after leaving the vehicle on the morning of Thursday, July 22nd, it was driven along Brynhyfryd Road, Briton Ferry and subsequently collided with a canal wall at Giant’s Grave Road, Briton Ferry.

“It is understood three youths were involved in the incident and South Wales Police’s investigation into the matter is continuing.”

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “South Wales Police were called around 9.40am this morning, Thursday, July 22 following reports of a single vehicle road traffic collision on Giant’s Grave Road, Briton Ferry.”

“A 17-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking and vehicle damage and has been released pending further investigation.

“It is believed that two others fled the scene on foot. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain their identity.”

(Lead image: Tammy Leigh Bowler / Facebook)