A MAN has been arrested after two men were hospitalised with stab wounds following an incident outside a busy nightclub.

An 18-year-old man from Wickford has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and remains in police custody after an incident outside MooMoo Clubrooms last night.

Police were called to the scene just before 4am this morning to reports of two men being assaulted.

The two victims remain in hospital and their conditions are not believed to be life-threatening.

It is believed to be a targeted incident, causing no wider threat to people in the area.

Officers say there will be increased police presence in the area today.

A crime scene cordon is still in place outside the nightclub as specialist officers investigate.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers are currently investigating after two men were assaulted on Southend High Street in the early hours of this morning.

“Officers were called to the High Street, outside MooMoo clubrooms shortly before 4am this morning (13 May) following reports of two men being assaulted.

“The victims were taken to hospital with stab wounds. They remain there and their condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

“An 18-year-old man from Wickford has been arrested in connection with this incident and remains in custody.

“We continue to investigate the circumstances and progress the investigation with our specialist officers.

“At this stage, it’s believed this was targeted and there is no wider threat to the local community.

“Residents will see an increased police presence in the area today.”

Anyone with information in relation to the incident is being asked to get in contact with the police.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“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.

“Alternatively you can call us on 101.

“If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

“Please quote incident 214 of 13 May when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”