A violent brawl involving around 30 teenagers armed with bottles and knives erupted on Southend High Street on Friday evening, leaving two people with slash wounds to their faces. Essex Police have imposed dispersal and search orders to restore order and prevent further incidents.
Police were called at approximately 7:50 PM following reports of a large-scale fight. During the altercation, weapons including bottles and knives were used, resulting in two teenagers suffering knife wounds to the face. Both were taken to hospital for treatment, with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.
In response, Essex Police issued a dispersal order under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, covering Southend High Street, Queensway through to Hamlet Court Road, and the seafront. This allows officers to disperse individuals to prevent harassment, alarm, distress, or crime.
Additionally, a Section 60 order under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act has been enacted, granting officers the power to search people or vehicles for offensive weapons without suspicion in the designated area. A Section 60AA order also permits officers to require the removal of face coverings.
Local officers will continue to patrol the area throughout the evening to ensure public safety and maintain order. The police have urged anyone with information to come forward.
