A YOUNG mother was shot with a Taser in the street in front of shocked schoolchildren.

A man and woman are in custody following the shooting in Newington Avenue, Southend, shortly after 3pm on Friday afternoon.

The disturbance broke out in front of shocked onlookers which included schoolchildren from St Nicholas School and the nearby Hamstel Junior School.

The young woman, who lives in Southend, was allegedly chased by two attackers, who she also claims were armed with a cosh, before they then fired a Taser at her.

The incident took place near to the Premier Store at the corner of Sherwood Way.

Describing the incident on Facebook, the victim said: “Thankfully it was nothing too serious but there was talk of ammonia too.

“I got off lucky, as did my friends. I was helped so the only thing I have is a burn.

“I was actually petrified - I thought I was being chased with a knife.

“I would rather have an electric shock than a stab wound.

“Fortunately, I just have a couple of marks, some broken sandals and that is all.”

Police were called and an investigation was launched to trace those involved.

It is claimed the victim and her alleged attackers are known to each other and there is no wider threat to the public.

Officers have since arrested two individuals on firearms offences in connection with the incident.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “A couple have been arrested following reports that a woman was assaulted in Newington Avenue, Southend, just before 3.30pm on Friday, July 5.

“It was alleged that the victim, aged in her 20s, was Tasered.

“A 20-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man, who are both from Southend, have been arrested on suspicion of possession of firearms offences.

“The woman has additionally been arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.

“They remain in custody as our enquiries continue.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Essex Police immediately on 101.

Alternatively, you can share information with independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

You can also share information online by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information. The suspects remain in custody.

UPDATE - The suspects have since been released without charge and will face no further action