Pensioners in Ammanford say they are too frightened to use public transport in the town, claiming a gang of youths have “hijacked” the bus station.

The South Wales Guardian has been contacted by a number of elderly town residents during the last fortnight regarding youths hanging around the bus station.

One pensioner, who asked not to be named, said passengers had been “intimated” by the group.

“There was around 30 young people all scattered around the bus station playing loud music, smoking and generally causing nonsense,” she said.
“It was 11 o’clock in the morning so a majority of them should be in school or college.
“They were really rowdy and I was generally frightened waiting for my bus to arrive.
“Passengers waiting for the bus felt extremely intimated by these youths and the mess left was disgusting.
“I have informed the police and when I went to tell the bus driver he didn’t seem interested, but I think he was a bit scared himself in case they caused a scene.
“It is the summer coming up and hopefully Ammanford will attract some tourists from away, but if a group of hooligans is what they first see when they arrive in the town then it will not be very pleasant.”

Another resident claimed drug-taking is taking place.
“When you walk past sometimes when a gang has been there, you can smell weed - cannabis - or other substances.
“Around two weeks ago, I saw a group of teenagers taking what I think was legal highs and I have been informed that some children have even collapsed.
“Some of them look really young so it is a big concern for Ammanford.”
“I passed about 5.30pm one evening and bus stop numbers two, five and six were crammed with youngsters.
“I needed to get onto the bus, but I waited near Co-op and kept watch from there instead of waiting by the gangs.”

A spokesman for Ammanford Police confirmed reports had been received concerning behaviour in the area.
The spokesperson said: “We want help Ammanford be a better place to live so if there are any problems please contact the police station on 101 or if you feel at risk contact 999 as soon as possible. The more information we get from the public the better.
“Positive action is taking place and we have a zero tolerance when it comes to drugs.
“We have increased patrol in the town to keep an eye on the area.”