Daniel Mihai Popescu, 28, to appear in court following extensive police operation

In a shocking incident in Aberfan, south Wales, a 28-year-old man, Daniel Mihai Popescu, has been charged with attempted murder following the stabbing of a 29-year-old pregnant woman. The alleged attack occurred on Tuesday morning, prompting an extensive response from South Wales Police.

According to authorities, Popescu, a resident of Merthyr Tydfil, south Wales, was detained by armed police as part of a comprehensive operation in the aftermath of the stabbing. The 29-year-old victim, whose injuries are not deemed life-threatening, has been discharged from the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.

A police spokeswoman announced today, “Daniel Mihai Popescu, aged 28, from Merthyr, has today been charged with attempted murder following an incident on Moy Road, Aberfan, Merthyr, yesterday morning. He will appear at Merthyr Magistrates Court tomorrow morning, Thursday December 7, at 10 am.”

South Wales Police had previously confirmed that the suspect is known to the victim. Chief Inspector Rob Miles addressed the community during a press briefing on Tuesday, expressing understanding of the shock and emphasizing that the incident is believed to be a targeted attack. Miles assured the public of an increased police presence in the area to provide reassurance to residents and the broader community.

Following the incident, schools and a community center in Aberfan were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, responded promptly to the scene, with the injured woman being conveyed to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff for further treatment.

Local witnesses described the scene as unprecedented in the typically quiet former coal mining village of Aberfan. Lynne Terrett, a resident, recounted her daughter’s experience, stating that the victim, who was pregnant, fell after being attacked. Susan Prothero, another long-time resident, expressed shock, noting the area’s peaceful history.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this distressing incident, attention turns to the court proceedings scheduled for tomorrow, where Popescu will face charges of attempted murder.