Dafydd Evans

Dafydd Evans, residing in a luxury apartment in Cardiff city centre, exploited vulnerable young men by running a prostitution operation that generated substantial illegal profits. He used his residence at the Hayes Apartments as a base for this criminal enterprise, which involved offering sexual services through a front as a massage business. Evans came to the attention of authorities following a tip-off from a man from Turkey who had connected with him via an online platform for travellers seeking accommodation. The whistleblower grew suspicious after Evans disclosed details about his activities during online conversations, including the location of his apartment and the nature of his 'massage business'.

On 3 July 2023, officers from South Wales Police's Exploitation Team executed an arrest at Evans's apartment. Upon searching the premises, they discovered incriminating evidence, including a massage bed in the living room, sex paraphernalia such as condoms and lubricants, boys' underwear, and a card payment machine. Multiple mobile phones were seized from the bed and subjected to forensic examination, revealing extensive criminal activity. The devices contained WhatsApp messages sent by Evans depicting the abuse of children, as well as communications offering sexual intercourse with young men under his control. Further analysis showed Evans was willing to travel internationally to meet clients, and his bank statements indicated earnings of up to £40,000 from these illicit activities.

Initially released on bail with strict conditions prohibiting visitors to his apartment, Evans breached these terms. During subsequent checks, he fled but was apprehended a few days later at a hotel and remanded in custody. His trial commenced at Cardiff Crown Court, culminating in a guilty verdict on 20 December 2025 for controlling prostitution for gain, acquiring criminal property in the form of money, and two counts of possessing Category A and Category C indecent photographs of children. Sentencing occurred on 22 December 2025 at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, where he received a custodial term of 45 months.

Detective Constable Robyn Allen, the officer in charge of the investigation, described Evans as a calculated paedophile who preyed on vulnerable individuals, using them as sex slaves for financial gain and to fulfil his depraved fantasies. South Wales Police seized over £40,000 from his bank accounts and initiated proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act to prevent him from profiting from his crimes. The force also collaborated with international partners to pursue any accomplices and support potential additional victims.