Locked-down Welsh school received second threat via email

A Welsh secondary school that was placed into lockdown after receiving a telephone threat received a separate threat via email, police have confirmed. Ysgol Maesydderwen in Ystradgynlais was put into lockdown mode on Monday morning after police received initial reports of a threat being made over the phone.

A cordon was erected outside the school and a large police presence was maintained at the site throughout Monday. Pupils and staff were eventually allowed to leave the premises on Monday afternoon, and a decision was made to close the school on Tuesday while investigations continued.

No arrests have been made, police have confirmed. 

On Tuesday evening it was revealed that a second threat was received by the school in the form of an email, which was reported to police on Monday evening.

Superintendent Gareth Grant of Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We understand this is a very unsettling time for the school’s pupils, teachers, parents and wider community.

“I want to reassure the public that there is no evidence to suggest any threat against any other schools or businesses in the local area.

“Our priority is to ensure the safety of pupils and teachers at the school, and we are working closely with Powys Council and the senior leaders at Ysgol Maesydderwen to this end.

“I want to thank the community for their understanding and patience while we carry out our enquiries. The impact of school closures on parents and carers cannot be underestimated, and I extend my thanks to everyone who has supported us to this point.

“You will see an increased police presence in the area as we continue our enquiries and provide reassurance to the local community.

“We will continue to share more information as soon as we are able to.”

Ysgol Maesydderwen will reopen on Wednesday, police added.