Two dispersal orders in Essex this weekend
It means police in the area have extra powers to ask people to leave
Police officers in certain areas in Essex will have extra powers this weekend, as two dispersal orders are enacted across the county.
The first order is already in place, in West Thurrock, after starting last night (September 22) at 8pm.
It's in place until Sunday (September 24) at 8pm, after police received information suggesting there will be a large car meet taking place.
Dispersal orders enable police officers to use extra powers to direct anyone suspected of causing anti-social behaviour to leave the area or to face arrest.
Inspector Terry Fisher said they're taking the action to "keep the public safe and avoid anti-social behaviour" and that earlier in the year a similar type-event left to a pedestrian being injured.
A second dispersal order is being enacted this evening (September 23) at 6pm in Harlow.
Similarly to West Thurrock, it's as a suspected car cruising event is due to take place.
The dispersal order in Harlow will be in place until 6am tomorrow (September 24).
Acting Inspector Matt Hughes said: “We use these orders in a considered and proportionate way, to make sure they are targeting anti-social behaviour and allowing people to go about their daily lives.
“We will not tolerate dangerous driving in any part of Harlow, and our officers will be out in the community on Saturday evening to make sure drivers are behaving safely and responsibly.”