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Masked squatters have taken over a former Cardiff police station.

The activists, who call themselves the Gremlins, moved into the three-storey Canton Police Station on Cowbridge Road East, early today after reportedly climbing through several open windows.

They have previously occupied the Bute Dock Hotel in Cardiff Bay and the former Spin ten-pin bowling centre on City Road.

The Gremlins describe themselves as a network of travellers, homeless people and supporters who campaign for the right to squat.

A spokesman for the group said: “We entered and occupied Canton Police Station in the early hours of Sunday morning. We did not ask for permission as it’s our legal right to do so.

“There were 12 different open windows to choose from, so permission seemed more of a formality anyway.

“We are standing up against corruption and brutality within the police force.

“We squat as we believe corporations have no right to own property. We squat here to show people that not everyone is afraid.”

A South Wales Police spokesman said: “Officers have attended the premises and this is now a matter for the courts.”

The Gremlins occupied the Bute Dock Hotel in Cardiff Bay on November 20, 2012, after informing its owners they had gained possession.

But the squatters left the premises a week later when nearby letting agency Keylet, which owns the building, spent thousands of pounds issuing an immediate High Court order.

The Gremlins have placed banners outside the building

In a prepared statement, the activists make accusations against police over the handling of the Lynette White murder investigation.