'Stop and search' order remains at Southend seafront

Essex Police officers were out and about in the city to ensure safety for everyone, said Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett. 

He said: “As we would expect on a sunny day in Southend, people have come to our popular seaside city to have a good time with family and friends. 

“We have extra officers working alongside our usual patrols and our partners to keep people safe and ensure this is a great place for you to come and have a good time. 

Area - The map shows where the Section 60 order is in place until 5pm (Image: Essex Police)

“We will not tolerate people who come to cause trouble, and anyone who does so will be robustly dealt with. 

“We have a range of measures in place, some you will see and some you won’t. 

“We are aware of another planned event and we are ready for that.” 

Police issued a Section 60 order, which remains in place until today, 5pm. 

The order gives officers the power to stop and search individuals in the area without the usual grounds for suspicion that they normally must have for a regular stop and search. 

Police assured these powers “will be used responsibly by the teams”. 

“This is one of many tactics we are using in Southend to keep people safe. We will use all the appropriate powers at our disposal to do so.” 

According to Essex Police, the investigation into the disorder in the city on Tuesday is “progressing at pace”. 

Eight people were arrested in connection with numerous offences including violent disorder and possession of offensive weapons. 

The force has been granted more time to question them by the courts and interviews will continue today. 

Detective Insp Alison Hooper, who is leading the investigation, said: “This extension allows us to continue our enquiries into the incidents of Tuesday night. 

“It is a complex investigation with a number of moving parts to work through. 

“We still need anyone with information to contact us."