Increased police presence to remain in Southend after disorder
Essex Police say eight people are still in custody
Last updated 1st Aug 2024
There will continue to be an increased visible police presence in Southend today, after officers made eight arrests while responding quickly to disorder there.
Those arrested remain in custody.
Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett said: “We will have an even greater visible presence over the next few days.
“I know people will be worried about what happened last night but Southend is a really safe place and disorder like that is not common here.
“Violent crime has fallen here over the last year and there are 1,000 fewer incidents than the previous 12 months.
“Knife crime are down 16 percent – that works out as more than 40 fewer incidents.
“Operation Union is having a really positive impact in keeping you safe while enjoying our wonderful seafront.
“Officers have made 75 arrests so far this summer as part of it. They’ve carried out more than 230 stop searches with around 42 percent leading to illegal items being discovered.
“And we’ll continue to work with our partners to ensure you can enjoy the seafront in the sunshine.
“We work alongside Southend-on-Sea City Council, the British Transport Police, the c2c railway and seafront businesses as part of Operation Union to keep you safe.
“Our officers are supported by British Transport Police - who monitor activity along the train lines into the city - the council’s community safety officers and CCTV team, and the local private security teams employed by the pubs and leisure attractions.
“I want to thank the people of Southend for their support.
“We will always do all we can, and take the necessary action, to keep you safe and keep you feeling safe.
“If you have any information about what happened last night, please get in contact.”
If you have any information or footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.
Please quote incident 1094 of 30 July.
You can let police know, by submitting a report on their website or by using the online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.
Visit the website to find out more about online reporting services.
If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.