Extra police officers have been deployed to Southend following a fight involving around 30 people, during which two teenagers suffered knife wounds.

Increased Police Presence

A dispersal order and a Section 60 search order are currently in place to prevent further incidents. Essex Police has maintained a significant presence in Southend throughout the bank holiday weekend following the large-scale disturbance on Friday evening.

Incident Details

The incident occurred on the High Street around 7:50 PM, resulting in two teenagers sustaining non-life-threatening knife wounds to the face, requiring hospital treatment. A 15-year-old boy is in custody and being questioned on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and requesting any mobile phone or dash-cam recordings from potential witnesses to help identify additional suspects.

Orders in Effect

A dispersal order, under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, is in effect until 8:00 PM on Sunday. This allows officers to disperse individuals from the affected area, including Southend High Street, Queensway, Hamlet Court Road, and the seafront.

Simultaneously, a Section 60 order, under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act, permits officers to search people and vehicles for offensive weapons without requiring prior suspicion.

Police Response and Reassurance

Reinforcements, including the Operational Support Group and Dog Units, have been deployed to bolster patrols. Local Policing Inspector Penny McQuade stated that Southend is 'open for business and enjoyment but it is closed for crime and those wishing to cause trouble.'

Inspector McQuade emphasized the unacceptable nature of the violence and the potential for life-changing injuries. She also expressed gratitude to the community and local businesses for their cooperation.

The investigation is ongoing, and Essex Police is urging anyone with information, including footage, to come forward, quoting incident number 1298 of Friday, May 1.