A fifth man has now been arrested following a report of violent disorder involving a group of men in Mill Road, Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool, at around 7.15pm on Thursday.

Gwent Police officers, supported by specially trained firearms officers and the National Police Air Service (NPAS) attended the scene and four men – aged 31, 40,45 and 61 - are currently in police custody, while the fifth, aged 59, is in hospital.

The 56-year-old man who was taken to hospital for treatment, remains in a critical condition.

Police are still appealing for anyone with information on doorbell or dashcam footage to come forward. Detective Chief Superintendent Anne-Marie Salwey said: “Violence in any form is completely unacceptable and anyone who is found to be involved in this disorder will be dealt as we will not accept this behaviour in our communities.

“We recognise that reports of this nature will prompt concern from our residents and it is likely that you will see officers in and around the area conducting enquiries as part of this investigation.

“Anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage could hold a piece of information that could assist our enquiries so we would urge you to speak to officers or make contact with our control room.”

“If you were in the Pontnewynydd area, especially Hospital Road or Mill Road, between 7pm and 7.30pm and you have details, including CCTV or dashcam footage, then officers would like to hear from you.

“You can call 101, visit our website or send us a direct message on social media quoting log reference 2600255536; you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously with information

The road remains closed between Mill Road and Hospital Road in both directions; diversions are in place and motorists are urged to seek alternative routes.