A gang armed with “two three foot machetes” was seen chasing a boy across a park, just days after a teenager was murdered.

Police were called to Chalkwell Park just after 5pm on Sunday evening after reports of a man being threatened with the blades.

The victim did not sustain any injuries.

Police bosses have insisted they are keeping an “open mind” at the incidents’ possible connection to their murder investigation into the death of Luke Bellfield.

Two 18-year-olds and a 17-year-old have been arrested in connection with the incident and are still in custody.

A witness, who asked not to be named said: “I heard a noise and saw a group of young boys in hoodies. I thought they were mucking about but I then realised this kid was in trouble.

“When I looked back one of them had two machetes, one in each hand. They were three foot long. There was three of them chasing one boy.”

Martin Terry, cabinet member for community safety, said: “This is absolutely shocking. They really need to stop carrying knives and weapons.

“One of these weapons has completely destroyed the lives of two families.”

It comes as a boxer from Southend has warned “gangsters” to “choose wisely” following the stabbing of murder victim, Luke.

Southend boxer Daniel Burzotta shared a stark warning on social media which said: “This is where you will be fighting for your life if this stupidness carries on.”

A spokesman at Essex Police said: “We were called with a number of reports of a man being threatened with machete in Chalkwell Park, in Westcliff, shortly before 5.20pm yesterday, Sunday 28 February.

“Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information on it should submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the ‘Live Chat’ button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.”

Police added: “We are keeping an open mind and are reviewing the incident and its possible connections to a murder investigation launched on Friday.”