POLICE have arrested a 14-year-old boy and three others after an incident which saw police officers assaulted in Pitsea.

The violence flared after two officers approached a motorcyclist suspected of being too young to ride a vehicle legally, and was allegedly riding without a safety helmet.

The rider is said to have driven towards the officers, who tried to make an arrest.

But as they did so, a group of people gathered at the scene and then assaulted the two police officers.

During the violence, a number of items were taken from the police officers and two police cars also had their tyres slashed.

A police officer was also spat at during the melee.

Police have since made four arrests, including a 14-year-old boy who was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and possession of a bladed article, and a 19-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and obstructing a police officer.

Both have since been bailed.

Two other individuals were also arrested, including a 16-year-old boy and a 48-year-old woman – both from Basildon – who were arrested on suspicion of theft.

Both are believed to still be in custody. 

The police officers are not thought to have sustained serious injuries as a result of the assault and have remained on duty.

As part of the investigation, police have also recovered a number of items which were taken from officers during the incident yesterday.

Detective Inspector Nick Brunton, who is leading the investigation for Essex Police, issued a warning to anyone involved in the violence.

He said: "Those who know they were involved in this incident in any way can be assured, we will be collating evidence to identify you and you can expect a knock on your door.

"We do not tolerate assaults on our officers. The officers, who were in Elm Green, were there in order to help the community.

"Instead, they have sustained injuries after being assaulted by several people simply for having the courage to carry out their duty.

"As a result, there will be a significant policing presence in the area this evening and I would urge anyone who witnessed this incident or has information on it to get in touch."