A RAIL firm says it is supporting police with their investigations after "disturbing and violent scenes" on Southend seafront last night.

 

Section 60 stop and search powers as well as a dispersal order were launched by police yesterday as "hundreds" of people turned up for an alleged beach party organised on TikTok.

Unverified reports suggested dozens of day-trippers had jumped the barriers at Southend Central and Victoria stations.

In light of the reported events, c2c has released a statement confirming it is supporting Essex Police as well as British Transport Police in their investigations.

Head of revenue protection and security at c2c, Iain Palmer, said: “c2c is aware of the disturbing and violent scenes which took place in and around Southend seafront last night.

“We know that a large number of the individuals involved travelled to and from Southend on our services and we are in the process of speaking with our affected station colleagues and supporting security teams to understand the full extent of the situation.

“We are also working closely and supporting both the local police force and British Transport Police with this live and ongoing investigation.

“As ever, the safety and well-being of our customers and colleagues remains of paramount importance, and we will be working with our security partners to ensure they have access to the support they need and that their personal safety is never compromised.”

Powers allowing officers to stop and search members of the public, their possessions and their vehicles for weapons remain in place until 8pm today, Wednesday July 31.

Essex Police confirmed officers arrested eight people and seized seven weapons after the night of violence and disorder.