A GANG armed with a baseball bat launched a “shocking” attack on a group of teenagers in the street, leaving one with “facial injuries”.

Police have confirmed the force is investigating the assault in Waarden Road, Canvey, on Friday night, but were unable to find anyone involved despite a “widespread search”.

Unconfirmed reports on social media suggested multiple teenagers where victims in the incident, which started when the gang harassed two young girls.

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It is claimed that the boyfriends of the girls confronted the group, who then allegedly attacked on the boys with a baseball bat.

Parents on social media reported that all the youngsters involved have been left shaken by the incident, which took place at roughly 9.30pm.

Councillor Andrew Sheldon, Tory leader of Castle Point Council, has urged those with information to come forward

He said: “This is truly shocking and our thoughts at the council are with the victim and his family.

“I would urge anyone with any information to come forward and tell the police.

“We all have the right to feel safe in our community and this group need to feel justice and taken off our streets as soon as possible.”

No arrests have been made at this stage of the investigation, with police apealing for anyone with information to come forward.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating an assault in Waarden Road, Canvey Island.

“The victim, a 16-year-old boy, reported being assaulted by a group of people.

“He sustained facial injuries which thankfully are not believed to be serious.

“Officers attended but, despite a widespread search, no one matching the descriptions given could be found.

“No arrests have been made and our enquiries are ongoing.”

The spokesman added: “We need anyone who saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam, or doorbell footage to contact us.

“If you have any information, you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the ‘Live Chat’ button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

“Please quote the crime reference number 42/62458/22.

“You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”