Man with Penarth Links Wanted for Domestic Violence, Assault 2026

Key Points

• A 38-year-old man named Jamie Van Birgelen, from Gabalfa in Cardiff, is wanted by South Wales Police in connection with domestic violence and assault offences.
• He has known links to both Penarth and Mynachdy areas.
• Police are appealing for public information to trace his whereabouts, urging anyone who has seen him or knows his location to come forward.
• Individuals should quote reference number 2600035064 when providing information.
• Contact options include South Wales Police’s online information portal, the non-emergency telephone number 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
• In emergencies, the public is advised to dial 999 immediately.
• This appeal highlights ongoing efforts to address serious offences related to domestic violence and assault in the region.

Cardiff (Cardiff Daily) April 3, 2026 – South Wales Police have launched a public appeal to locate 38-year-old Jamie Van Birgelen from Gabalfa in Cardiff, who is wanted in connection with domestic violence and assault offences. Officers emphasise that Van Birgelen has links to Penarth and Mynachdy, urging residents in those areas to remain vigilant. The force has provided a specific reference number, 2600035064, for anyone with information to use when contacting them.

Who is Jamie Van Birgelen and what offences is he wanted for?

Jamie Van Birgelen, aged 38 and residing in the Gabalfa area of Cardiff, is the subject of this police wanted appeal. As reported by South Wales Police in their official statement, he faces investigation over domestic violence and assault offences, which are described as serious matters requiring urgent public assistance. The police have not released additional details on the specifics of the alleged incidents at this stage, maintaining operational confidentiality.

The statement from South Wales Police, issued via their public channels, confirms: “A man from Cardiff is wanted by police in connection with domestic violence and assault offences.” This precise wording underscores the gravity of the charges, positioning Van Birgelen as a priority target in their efforts to ensure community safety. Gabalfa, a residential suburb in northern Cardiff, serves as his primary known base, though his connections extend further.

What are his known links to Penarth and Mynachdy?

Penarth, a coastal town just south of Cardiff across the Severn Estuary, and Mynachdy, a neighbourhood in north Cardiff near Gabalfa, are highlighted as areas linked to Van Birgelen. South Wales Police explicitly note in their appeal: “Officers say he has links to both Penarth and Mynachdy.” These connections suggest he may frequent these locations, prompting a targeted call to residents and visitors there.

Penarth’s prominence in the appeal raises questions about potential sightings in its bustling high street, marina, or residential zones. Mynachdy, with its proximity to Gabalfa, could indicate local movements within Cardiff’s northern communities. As per the police statement, “anyone who may have seen him, or who knows where he is, [should] get in touch.” This broad net reflects standard procedure in wanted appeals to cover all associated areas.

Why are these locations significant in the police search?

The inclusion of Penarth and Mynachdy broadens the search radius beyond Gabalfa, acknowledging Van Birgelen’s mobility. South Wales Police’s strategy leverages community knowledge in these spots, where personal or casual encounters might occur. No further elaboration on the nature of these links—such as family, employment, or social ties—has been disclosed, preserving investigative integrity.

How can the public assist in locating him?

South Wales Police have outlined clear channels for information submission. Their official appeal states: “Members of the public can contact the force online via its information portal, by calling the non-emergency number 101, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.” Each method caters to different preferences, from digital convenience to guaranteed anonymity.

The reference number 2600035064 is critical, as emphasised: “asking anyone who may have seen him, or who knows where he is, to get in touch quoting reference 2600035064.” This ensures tips are swiftly directed to the handling team. For immediate threats, the guidance is unequivocal: “Police say people should always dial 999 in an emergency.”

What precautions should people take?

While urging cooperation, South Wales Police implicitly advise caution. Residents are not asked to approach Van Birgelen but to report sightings safely through official means. This aligns with protocols for wanted individuals linked to violence-related offences, prioritising public welfare.

What do we know about the nature of the offences?

The offences cited—domestic violence and assault—carry significant legal weight under UK law. Domestic violence encompasses a range of abusive behaviours within intimate or family relationships, often involving physical harm, coercion, or threats. Assault, meanwhile, covers unlawful applications of force or threats thereof. South Wales Police’s phrasing, “domestic violence and assault offences,” indicates multiple potential counts, though specifics remain under wraps.

As per their statement: “South Wales Police are appealing for information to trace 38‑year‑old Jamie Van Birgelen.” This public call follows standard procedure when suspects evade custody, aiming to prevent further risk. No arrest details or timelines for the alleged incidents have been shared, respecting due process.

Broader context: Domestic violence and assault in South Wales

Domestic violence remains a pressing issue in Wales, with South Wales Police routinely issuing similar appeals. Statistics from recent years show thousands of incidents reported annually in the force area, underscoring the prevalence. This case fits into ongoing campaigns like White Ribbon and local initiatives to combat such crimes.

Penarth and Cardiff’s northern suburbs, including Gabalfa and Mynachdy, have seen prior police activity on similar matters. The appeal’s timing in April 2026 coincides with heightened spring awareness efforts, though no direct link is stated. South Wales Police’s multi-channel approach maximises reach across diverse demographics.

Police statement in full

To ensure complete transparency, the full police narrative as released states: “A man from Cardiff is wanted by police in connection with domestic violence and assault offences. South Wales Police are appealing for information to trace 38‑year-old Jamie Van Birgelen, who is from Gabalfa in Cardiff. Officers say he has links to both Penarth and Mynachdy and are asking anyone who may have seen him, or who knows where he is, to get in touch quoting reference 2600035064. Members of the public can contact the force online via its information portal, by calling the non-emergency number 101, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Police say people should always dial 999 in an emergency.”

This verbatim account, attributed directly to South Wales Police, forms the cornerstone of all coverage. No additional media titles have expanded beyond this core release, confirming it as the primary source.

Why has this appeal been issued now?

The timing of the appeal on April 3, 2026, suggests recent developments in the investigation. South Wales Police deploy such public calls when other leads stall, as implied by their proactive outreach. Gabalfa’s community ties may aid in generating tips, given Van Birgelen’s local roots.

Penarth’s inclusion points to cross-border movements, common in the Cardiff Bay region. Mynachdy’s mention reinforces a focused Cardiff-north search. The reference number’s specificity facilitates efficient logging, a hallmark of modern policing.

Community response and next steps

While no public reactions are yet reported, similar appeals often yield quick results through community vigilance. South Wales Police anticipate information via 101 or Crimestoppers, with online portals offering 24/7 access. Anonymity options encourage hesitant witnesses.

Should Van Birgelen be sighted, updated advisories will follow. This case exemplifies balanced policing: firm action against offenders while safeguarding informants. Residents in Gabalfa, Penarth, and Mynachdy are best positioned to assist.

Implications for public safety

Domestic violence and assault disrupt communities, prompting robust responses like this. South Wales Police’s appeal reinforces zero-tolerance stances. By naming Van Birgelen and his areas, they empower proactive reporting.

Crimestoppers’ role ensures even reluctant sources contribute safely. The 999 directive prioritises emergencies, reflecting measured risk assessment. As investigations progress, further details may emerge, but current focus remains tracing.