A major disturbance involving 30 teenagers armed with bottles and knives has resulted in two people being hospitalised with slash wounds to their faces. Essex Police have subsequently implemented a dispersal order following the incident earlier this evening.
Police Statement on the Incident
A statement from Essex Police said: "Officers in Southend have tonight, Friday 1 May, placed a number of orders in place to keep the public safe and prevent anti-social behaviour."
"We were called at around 7.50pm this evening following reports of a large scale fight involving 30 young people on Southend High Street. During the incident weapons were seen and used, including bottles and knives, and two teenagers suffered knife wounds to the face. Both have been taken to hospital where they are receiving treatment, their injuries are not thought to be life threatening."
"Officers remain at the scene and are out in force as they continue to deal with the incident and restore order."
Orders Imposed to Ensure Public Safety
To prevent any further incidents, Essex Police have placed several orders in place. A dispersal order has been issued under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, covering the areas of Southend High Street, Queensway through to Hamlet Court Road, and the seafront. This allows officers to disperse people to prevent harassment, alarm, distress, or crime.
Additionally, an order under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act has been implemented, enabling officers to search people or vehicles for offensive weapons without suspicion within the designated area. Another order under Section 60AA of the same act allows officers to insist on the removal of face coverings.
Local officers will continue to patrol the area throughout the evening to maintain order and ensure public safety.
