Police have urged people to stop sharing videos on social media identifying the suspect of a sexual offence involving a child.

Officers arrested a 39-year-old man in Welshpool on Monday, March 4, on suspicion of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and he remains in custody.

A vigilante group approached the Welshpool man, filmed his arrest and then posted the videos on social media which have been viewed more than 55,000 times.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokeswoman said: "We are aware of a video that is circulating on social media which allegedly identifies a suspect of a sexual offence involving children, and recognise the strength of feeling which exists in respect of this.

She added: “We can confirm that a 39-year-old man from the Welshpool area was arrested on Monday, March 4, on suspicion of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and currently remains in police custody.

“Please refrain from sharing the video and from making any comments on the video which could amount to a criminal offence. This is in order to allow for a thorough investigation and to prevent the investigation being undermined.

“We also urge people not to take matters into their own hands or get involved in any unlawful activity which could hamper police enquiries. Where any criminal offences are committed, we will take appropriate action."

Anyone with any information which may assist the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting ref. 355 of March 4 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.