A TEENAGER has been arrested following reports of a fight outside a fast-food restaurant in Benfleet.
A big police presence outside KFC in London Road, Tarpots, in Benfleet following the incident.
A police cordon was placed around the site following an incident, reported to police at about 10.35pm on Saturday.
Members of the public reported seeing about three ambulances and four police cars outside the chicken shop on Saturday night.
A 15-year-old boy was allegedly assaulted and had his coat stolen outside the shop.
Police later arrested a 15-year-old boy on suspicion of causing GBH with intent. He is currently in custody.
Police remained ned at the scene on Sunday morning, including a forensic police vehicle.
Lynsey McCarthy-Calvert, Castle Point councillor for Appleton ward, said: “The cordon has now been removed and KFC is back open, so thankfully it doesn’t look too serious.
“I’m pleased that police are investigating and taking it seriously. Police are under-resourced in the area.
“It is an area that is known for young people to hang around. There aren’t really facilities for young people around here.
“My background is mental health and I think the mental health of our young people is why we’re seeing this crime, not just locally but nationally.
“We do have a lack of facilities that’s accessible for our children and young people and I’d like to see that change.
“It is sad that young people can get caught up in things like this.”
A spokesman for Essex Police said: “A teenager has been arrested following an incident in Benfleet.
"We were called to reports of a fight involving a group at KFC in London Road at around 10.35pm on Saturday, February 3.
“If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.
“Please quote the crime reference number 42/18587/24.
“You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.
“Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.
“If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.”
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