Welshpool man, 39, arrested for inciting girl to engage in sexual activity
A man has been arrested for inciting a child to engage in sexual activity following a sting by vigilante groups in Mid Wales.
Four groups turned up at the home of a man in Welshpool, and confronted him on Monday evening before posting videos online.
In the video, the group alleges the man, 39, has been speaking to them online, as they posed as a 12-year-old.
In the 15-minute long video, the groups reveal they are in Welshpool. The man remains in police custody.
A spokeswoman for Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed a man was arrested, but has urged caution against sharing the video.
She added that people should not take matters into their own hands.
She said: "We are aware of a video that is circulating on social media which allegedly identifies a suspect of a sexual offence involving children, and recognise the strength of feeling which exists in respect of this.
“We can confirm that a 39-year-old man from the Welshpool area was arrested on Monday, 4th March, on suspicion of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and currently remains in police custody
“Please refrain from sharing the video and from making any comments on the video which could amount to a criminal offence.
"This is in order to allow for a thorough investigation and to prevent the investigation being undermined.
“We also urge people not to take matters into their own hands or get involved in any unlawful activity which could hamper police enquiries.
"Where any criminal offences are committed, we will take appropriate action.
“Anyone with any information which may assist the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting ref. 355 of 4th March or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
