Reform UK Wales leader Dan Thomas resigns after arrest

Dan Thomas has resigned as the leader of Reform UK in Wales following his arrest on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour. The resignation, announced on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, creates a leadership vacuum for the party, which became the largest opposition group in the Senedd after winning 34 seats in May. Gwent Police confirmed that a 45-year-old man from the Aberbargoed area was arrested on Sunday, September 13, on suspicion of assault and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour. The man was bailed pending further enquiries. In a statement released by his party, Thomas said he was standing down due to personal reasons. "It has been the honour of my life to have been the leader of Reform Wales and see this party go from zero to 34 elected members and become the largest opposition group in Welsh history," Thomas said. "With deep regret, I am now standing down from this position due to personal reasons. Over the weekend, I was reported to the police and was released without charge.