POLICE are warning residents not to embark on local patrol groups as an attempt to stop crime.

Aydin Eldeniz, 28, was found by dog walkers in Northlands Park near Felmores at about 5.20pm on Monday, December 18.

He sustained a single stab wound to his chest, police and paramedics rushed to a field near to the lake in the park, where he was discovered.

Sadly, he died at the scene.

The shocking death, combined with an increase in burglaries in Basildon, saw a post on Basildon Crimewatch Facebook page calling for volunteers to patrol the streets. It received more than 150 likes and 35 shares.

Many commenters appeared to encourage the concept, being in favour of forming a vigilante group to patrol the streets in an attempt to cut down on crime in Basildon.

But Basildon’s Community Policing team have advised against any patrols, instead urging the public to report crime.

The Facebook post read: “People of Basildon, I need your help for me to continue patrolling your streets with my volunteers

“I need everyone who wants us to keep doing this to show support and write a good comment about how you think this would work for you.

“As the more I get the more I can copy and paste and take to my meeting with the police and council

“Or night angels will be stopped, I so hate this and I know I can do better than the police thank you.”

But Inspector Steven Parry, of the Basildon Community Policing Team, has insisted public safety is of the utmost importance, urging public not to put themselves in danger by embarking on any kind of vigilante mission.

He Inspector Steven Parry, of the Basildon Community Policing Team, said: “We have seen a recent post in relation to public concerns about Basildon, suggesting local patrol groups.

“Whilst we understand the concerns, we advise against any such patrol groups.

“Instead, we urge the reporting of incidents, reporting of crime and sharing of any information that you may have to assist us tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

“It is of upmost importance to us that you feel safe in your community.

“If you feel that you wish to play a bigger part in looking after your community and have an interest in working with Essex Police then please look at our Active Citizen scheme.”