'Can I wash my horse?': Gwent Police reveal ridiculous 999 calls being made during coronavirus lockdown

A Welsh police force say it has been inundated with ridiculous 999 and 101 calls which waste operators' time and could put lives at risk.

Gwent Police said call handlers have dealt with numerous non-emergency calls in recent days.

One person asked if they were allowed to buy printer ink, and another even asked if they would be permitted to go and wash their horse.

Chief Constable Pam Kelly said the calls are delaying attendance to genuine emergencies Credit: Gwent Police

Gwent Police Chief Constable Pam Kelly said the distractions are delaying her officers' attendance to genuine emergencies.

According to the force, some of the recent calls to both 999 and 101 service have included:

  • ''Can I go shopping?''

  • ''Can I go and feed a stray cat?''

  • ''Can I still move house?''

  • ''Can I go out in my car at night?''

  • ''Can I wash my horse?''

  • ''Can I go out in my garden?''

  • ''Can I go and buy ink cartridges to print my daughter's school work?''

Gwent Police are reminding members of the public that they should only contact 999 in the following circumstances:

  • When there is danger to life or property

  • When reporting a crime that is in progress

  • When a suspect is nearby.

The non-emergency 101 number should be used if someone needs advice on a policing matter.

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