Man jailed for brandishing imitation gun on Tonyrefail bus

A Pontypridd man has been jailed for 14 months after brandishing an imitation firearm on a bus in Tonyrefail, causing fear among passengers and the public.

Liam Jonathan, 36, of Clos William Price, Glyn Taff, Pontypridd, was sentenced at Merthyr Crown Court today after pleading guilty on November 14 to possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

The incident unfolded on May 27, 2025, at Waunrhydd Road in Tonyrefail, where multiple witnesses reported seeing Jonathan carrying what appeared to be a handgun. One eyewitness described being tapped on the arm by a male who warned her about a man with a gun nearby.

When Jonathan approached, he claimed it was merely a water pistol and insisted he posed no threat. However, his behaviour escalated when he boarded a bus without purchasing a ticket. After becoming increasingly agitated when confronted by the bus driver, Jonathan brandished the imitation firearm at the driver in a tense confrontation that prompted immediate alarm.

Police were swiftly alerted, and Jonathan was apprehended following a brief struggle. During his arrest, he claimed the weapon was a BB gun. Officers confirmed the imitation firearm was not loaded, but the potential for harm remained evident.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Georgia Ireland stated: “This incident highlights the serious nature of carrying any firearm, real or imitation. The fear and distress caused to the public were significant. Our response was swift, and I commend the quick actions of the bus driver and bystanders who alerted police.

“When police arrived, Jonathan was apprehended after a brief struggle, during which he claimed the weapon was a BB gun. Officers confirmed that the imitation firearm was indeed not loaded, but the potential for harm was evident.

“This case serves as a reminder of the importance of public vigilance and the serious consequences of possessing weapons, regardless of their authenticity.”