Eight people further arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in Southend

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Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

Eight men and boys held by police after people fought with machetes on Southend seafront have been further arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

Essex Police said the eight, aged between 14 and 18, had been arrested on suspicion of offences including possession of offensive weapons following Tuesday’s incident.

Detective Inspector Alison Hooper, who is leading the investigation, said officers are “working through volumes of footage to understand what has happened and individual roles in the disorder”.

It comes as a top officer said that police were “aware of another possible event planned”, and warned that anyone coming to commit crime will be “met by officers and dealt with”.

The force has set up a dedicated phone line for people to report information about what happened on Tuesday, and police are appealing for people to share footage with them.

Police said officers responded “quickly and robustly” to reports of people with weapons on the seafront and made eight arrests.

DI Hooper said on Thursday: “All eight arrested remain in custody and our investigation into the incidents of Tuesday night is ongoing.

“We are working through volumes of footage to understand what has happened and individual’s roles in the disorder, alongside speaking to a number of witnesses.

“We need anyone who has information about what happened, and what led up to it, to contact us and we’ve set up a special telephone line specifically for this investigation.

“The number is 0800 096 0095 so if you do have information I need to you to get in touch.”

Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett said police will have an “even larger visible presence” in Southend in the coming days.

“We are working with our partners to ensure if you come to Southend to enjoy our fantastic seafront you feel safe,” he said.

“If you see our officers and have any worries or concerns, please come and speak to them.

“We are aware of another possible event planned.

“We will be ready for that and will use the tools available to us to prevent any disorder.

“My message is clear – if you’re coming here to create disorder or commit crime, don’t bother.

“If you’re planning to bring weapons, drugs, or carry out violence you’ll be met by officers and dealt with.”