AnthonyTony Jones, 56, of Brecon, lost his life in what police believe was a violent brawl between rival motorcycle gangs in the south Wales valleys. The incident, which involved knives and hammers, occurred in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, last Thursday evening, and resulted in the arrest of ten men aged between 31 and 73. Seven of those arrested remain in custody, while three people were taken to hospital, at least one with critical injuries.
The police investigation, led by Det Supt Laura Bartley of Gwent police, has revealed that members of the Vikings and Hells Angels motorcycle clubs were likely involved in the incident. Bartley stated that the investigation is progressing rapidly, with multiple arrests made and detectives working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the disorder. The police are also appealing for a man, Anthony Paul Jones, 40, from Blaenavon, Torfaen, to come forward as part of the investigation, and are searching for a blue Ford Transit van with the registration plate MA23 FLC.
The incident has caused significant concern within the community, with a police cordon remaining outside the British Legion Club in Pontnewynydd, where the brawl took place, for forensic work. Torfaen council has announced that nearby Hospital Road could remain closed until into the weekend. The Vikings and Hells Angels motorcycle clubs, which originated in the US, have chapters around the UK, with some groups self-identifying as "outlaw" or "one per cent" and being involved in criminal activity such as drug and weapons trafficking.
Recent incidents involving the Hells Angels and Vikings motorcycle clubs have resulted in jail time for members. In June, three Hells Angels bikers from Watford were jailed for attacking members of the Vikings in October 2022, while another three Hells Angels from the Greater Manchester area were handed jail time in March for firearms and drugs possession. As the investigation into the death of Anthony "Tony" Jones continues, the police are working to identify everyone involved and bring those responsible before the courts.
Det Supt Laura Bartley reassured the public that officers and staff are working around the clock to progress the investigation, stating, "We understand this incident will cause significant concern within the community. I would like to reassure the public that officers and staff are working around the clock to progress this investigation, identify everyone involved and bring those responsible before the courts." The community remains on high alert as the police work to resolve the situation and bring those responsible to justice.
