Two teens stabbed in the face in ‘mass’ fight involving 30 armed youths
Two teenagers have been stabbed after a fight involving 30 youths broke out in Southend last night.
Police were called to the ‘large-scale fight’ on the High Street shortly before 8pm.
Some of those involved were seen brandishing weapons including bottles and knives.
Two teenagers suffered stab wounds to the face and were taken to hospital.
Their injuries were said to be non-life threatening, and each is receiving treatment.
Sign up for all of the latest stories
Start your day informed with Metro's News Updates newsletter or get Breaking News alerts the moment it happens.
A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of GBH in connection with the violence.
He remains in custody for questioning.
Officers stayed at the scene through the night to restore order, Essex Police said.
Dispersal orders were granted giving them extra powers covering the high street, as well as Queensway through to Hamlet Court Road and the seafront.
Police said the orders allow officers to search people or vehicles for offensive weapons without suspicion and insist upon the removal of face coverings.
Those extra powers will remain in force all weekend, Essex Police said.
Additional officers are also being drafted in to the area.
Southend Local Policing Inspector Penny McQuade said: ‘Our message is really clear to people – Southend is open for business and enjoyment but it is closed for crime and those wishing to cause trouble.
‘The events of last night were completely unacceptable, two young people suffered potentially life changing facial injuries while a number of others were hurt and those who witnessed it will no doubt have been frightened and concerned.
‘We are not prepared to tolerate crime or anti-social behaviour and to this end we will continue investigating, arresting those responsible and patrolling the town to ensure it is safe and peaceful for our community to enjoy.
‘We are really grateful to the community and businesses who called us really quickly and of course to the Southend Community Safety Unit who supported us throughout.’
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For more stories like this, check our news page.