More than 500 people arrested, and 69 drug dealers sentenced to a total 100 years of custodial sentences

Clear, Hold, Build launched in Butetown in late 2024 in response to an increase in serious organised crime with daily reports of drug dealing, violent crime and related-anti-social behaviour.

Clear, Hold, Build is a three-step plan, backed by the Home Office, which sees organised criminals and their associates cleared from an area through relentless disruption and pursuit activity.

The area is then stabilised with high-visibility police patrols and measures by partner agencies to create a more empowered and resilient community, less susceptible to being exploited by organised crime groups.

As part of the Clear phase in Butetown, led by the local Neighbourhood Policing Team, there have been:

• 518 arrests for all crime types. 
• 69 drug dealers charged with drug trafficking offences.
• 100 years of custodial sentences with more anticipated as matters progress through the courts.
• Three major “drug lines” dismantled.
• Substantial quantities of Class A and Class B drugs, cash, weapons and drug-related paraphernalia seized.

Divisional Commander for Cardiff, Chief Superintendent Marc Attwell, said:

“Clear Hold Build is a partnership operation, but the police part of the initiative in Butetown has seen more than 500 people arrested for a variety of offences.

“But more importantly, the community is telling us just how safe they feel.

“Recently we had a member of the community approach a member of the local policing team and say ‘for the first time in 20 years I feel safe enough to walk around my community’, and that pays testament to the work those officers.”

Inspector Gareth Handy added:

“Through our Clear Hold Build approach, we are committed to making a lasting difference for the Butetown community.

“ I want to thank our partners and residents for their continued support and cooperation.

“This is not a short-term effort — it’s about sustained engagement and tackling issues together. By working in partnership, we can build safer, stronger neighbourhoods for Butetown.”