Rayleigh: Appeal following disturbance

Officers are thanking residents of Rayleigh following reports of a public disturbance near King George’s Park, and into the High Street, yesterday afternoon.

We were called just before 4.40pm to reports that a group of teenagers were arguing with a man in a car. The caller reported that one of the teenagers was armed with a knife.

We believe the same group of teenagers then made their way towards the High Street, and then onto Highfield Crescent and Bull Lane.

Detective Inspector Mike Calvert said:

“I would like to thank the residents of Rayleigh for their patience yesterday afternoon and evening as our officers searched the town.

“Several teenagers were detained and searched, but no weapons were recovered.

“I understand that this will have been a really concerning incident – particularly for families who were in the park enjoying half term, and residents who were impacted by damage to their cars and garden fences in Highfield Crescent and Bull Lane.

“We continued our enquiries late into the night last night, and it’s likely that you’ll see officers on patrol in the town today. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t be afraid to speak to them.

“We are continuing to appeal for information, dash cam footage, or doorbell footage to further our enquiries.

“If you have any information at all – no matter how insignificant you think it may be – please contact us.”

Please quote incident number 813 of Friday 8 April.

You can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through https://crimestoppers-uk.org.