FIRST Minister Mark Drakeford has warned that violence seen in Swansea last night "will not be tolerated anywhere in Wales."

Large-scale disorder broke out in the Mayhill area of the South Wales city last night as a vigil descended into violence, with cars set on fire and homes bricked.

Police warned people to stay indoors amid chaotic scenes on the streets, with images and footage posted on social media showing cars on fire in the middle of the road and crowds cheering as a vehicle was rolled down a hill.

Local Welsh Parliament member Tom Giffard called the scenes “disturbing”, while Welsh secretary and Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MP Simon Hart said: “A tough night for the police dealing with such reckless behaviour. No excuses, police right to robustly respond.”

South Wales Police Superintendent Tim Morgan said that what was believed to have started as a vigil for a recently-deceased local resident had escalated into “violence, criminal damage and a wanton disregard for public safety”.

He added on Thursday evening: “We have a number of officers at the scene working to de-escalate the situation as quickly as possible and allow other emergency service colleagues to attend to calls in the area.

“The incident is still on-going and we urge anyone involved to leave the scene immediately.

“Those involved can expect to face robust action. Post-incident investigations will also aim to identify all those concerned.

“In the meantime, we urge local residents to stay indoors while the matter is brought to a safe conclusion.”

First minister of Wales Mark Drakeford condemned the violence.

He said: "The violent scenes in Swansea last night were completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated anywhere in Wales.

"Thank you South Wales Police Swansea for bringing the situation under control and continuing to monitor it closely this morning."