Dyfed-Powys Police has launched its annual summer operation targeting antisocial behaviour and violence in Tenby and Saundersfoot – just as thousands of bank holiday visitors prepare to descend on Pembrokeshire this weekend.
Operation Lion, which sees Dyfed-Powys Police work in partnership with British Transport Police, Transport for Wales and Pembrokeshire County Council, launched ahead of the early May bank holiday and will continue throughout the summer months. Additional police resources from Neighbourhood Policing, Prevention Teams and Response policing will be dedicated to key locations every weekend to deter crime and disorder.
The operation comes just weeks after four teenagers were stabbed at Tenby railway station on 7 April 2026, sending shockwaves through the town and sparking urgent calls for a stronger police presence. Councillors said Tenby had been “let down” and a joint crackdown involving police, the council and rail bosses followed shortly after.
Superintendent Louise Harries, BCU Commander for Pembrokeshire, said the force had listened to community concerns and acted early this year. “We have recognised that the increased demand started earlier this year. We have listened to the concerns from our communities, and have responded by bringing forward our policing and engagement plans,” she said.
She added that the operation aimed to make Tenby safe for everyone. “We want to ensure that everyone – residents and tourists alike – can enjoy the area and the events we host here safely, and Op Lion plays a very important role in this. Over the next few months, members of the public can expect to see a visible police presence in our busiest areas.”
The summer ahead is expected to be particularly busy for Tenby, with the town hosting a string of major events including Carten, the DGR Motorcycle Ride, the TSC sailing regatta and Firefly Championships, Long Course Weekend, Summer Spectacular and IronMan Wales – together attracting thousands of tourists, holidaymakers and athletes.
Pembrokeshire County Council Assistant Chief Executive Richard Brown said the county remained a safe and welcoming destination. “Pembrokeshire and Tenby continue to be safe, friendly and welcoming destinations, where many thousands of people come each year to relax, explore and enjoy everything our stunning county has to offer,” he said. “The overwhelming majority of visitors do so responsibly and respectfully.”
He added that Op Lion provided vital reassurance. “We’re pleased to see the return of Op Lion in Tenby, alongside increased police visibility and patrols across the county. These measures are about reassurance, supporting residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
British Transport Police T/Superintendent Jonathan Cooze said rail passengers would see officers across the network throughout the summer. “Anyone travelling to and from Tenby over the summer will see officers out across the rail network, working alongside Dyfed-Powys Police and partners to provide a visible presence, reassure the public and help prevent disorder,” he said.
Transport for Wales Security Manager Simon Turton said additional security had been put in place on trains and at stations between Pembroke Dock and Carmarthen. “Tenby is a great place for a holiday or day out and we want everyone visiting the town by train to be able to do so safely,” he said. “All our trains have high quality CCTV and our on board teams will be wearing body worn cameras.”
Harries said Op Lion covered the whole of Pembrokeshire, not just Tenby and Saundersfoot. “While Op Lion is our operation name relating to police and partner work in Tenby and Saundersfoot specifically, residents across Pembrokeshire can be reassured that increased visibility and patrols will be county-wide.”
Anyone wishing to report a concern to Dyfed-Powys Police can call 101, report online at dyfed-powys.police.uk, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always call 999.
