Fire in drug paraphernalia between homeless tents triggers explosion in Cardiff

A witness described a large explosion as a fire spreading through drug paraphernalia and rubbish at a homeless tent camp in Cardiff city centre. Firefighters were called to tackle the incident at the Wood Street bridge over the River Taff in the center of the city.

The witness said there was a “big fire” just after 1.30am and there was a fairly loud explosion sound, as if something large had exploded. They said activity in the area in recent months had “caused chaos for the local community”.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was “a large rubbish fire involving mixed household waste and drug paraphernalia”. Firefighters were called to the riverbank at 1:37 a.m. and a stop call was received around 2 a.m. For the latest news from Cardiff, sign up to our newsletter here.

READ MORE: 'Upskirting' man followed schoolgirls to take photos but they were more than a match for him

BREAKING: Cheese worth £300,000 – including award-winning Welsh Cheddar – stolen from dairy

The witness said: “At around 1.30am I saw a bright glow outside my window and when I looked I saw it was burning right next to the bridge in front [Principality Stadium].”

They added: “There are fights almost every night and I am often woken up by screaming and shouting. Some nights I literally see people walking around with needles sticking out of their arms. When I saw the fire I wasn't surprised and I immediately called 999. They arrived soon after.

“Crime near our building has gotten so bad. You could set up a police station in one of the apartments here and make so many arrests.”

A South Wales Fire and Rescue spokesman said: “At around 1.37am SWFRS was called to a large rubbish fire involving mixed household waste and drug paraphernalia. A crew from Cardiff Central successfully tackled the fire using a hose reel nozzle and a blanket.” Hook. The stop message was received around 2 a.m.

WalesOnline has contacted South Wales Police for comment.