Op Adriatic returns to keep Aberavon beachfront safe in 2025

As the summer approaches, Operation Adriatic, our annual summer beachfront operation designed to combat anti-social behaviour, has been relaunched for 2025.

The operation sees South Wales Police work closely in partnership with Neath Port Talbot Council, Safer Neath Port Talbot, the RNLI and other agencies in order to make the beachfront a pleasant space for all to enjoy.

On occasions throughout the summer, Section 35 dispersal will be authorised on the beachfront, meaning that people involved in anti-social behaviour will be required to leave the area.

The designated area to leave is defined as: Entirety of the Beach area including The 'Small Beach', North Pier, and the entirety of the promenade area including businesses along the promenade such as Remo's and Franco's to Baglan Bay Beach, including the dunes at this beach.

Inspector Jared Easton said:

“Op Adriatic is a co-ordinated multi-agency response which has been launched to ensure that Aberavon Seafront remains a safe, welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone this spring and summer. The operation will focus on engaging with the public and preventing any anti-social behaviour.
“The operation is part of a wider seasonal approach to support the local community and visitors by encouraging positive behaviour and promoting shared responsibility for keeping the beach environment safe and respectful.
“Partnership working is key, and by combining resources and sharing intelligence, we’re better-placed to prevent issues from escalating and offer support where needed.
“By engaging early and often, we can prevent issues before they start and ensure everyone feels safe and included.”

If you’ve witnessed anti-social behaviour, please report it to us: Report antisocial behaviour | South Wales Police (south-wales.police.uk)

Councillor Alun Llewelyn, Deputy Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council and Cabinet Member for Housing & Community Safety, said:

“Operation Adriatic is a vital part of our summer safety plans, and through our Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership, we will be working closely with South Wales Police and other partners to keep Aberavon Seafront safe and enjoyable for all.
“The beachfront is one of our county borough’s most loved spaces, and we know how important it is to local families, residents and businesses. By combining our efforts—whether that’s through community engagement, youth outreach, or targeted enforcement where needed—we’re helping create a welcoming environment where everyone can feel safe.”

Clive Morris, Lifeboat Operations Manager, said:

“Operation Adriatic is now entering its fourth season. It was developed to make the beachfront area a safer and more desirable place for everyone to enjoy. The RNLI has teamed up with other agencies to reduce response times to incidents involving missing persons and to enhance overall safety coverage along the seafront.
“By working together, we’ve created a vibrant and welcoming beachfront that continues to attract more visitors. It’s always a pleasure to see our partners at South Wales Police working from our station — their presence makes a real difference.”