Leigh-on-Sea: Visible police presence after Section 60

People in Leigh-on-Sea will continue to see a higher than usual police presence throughout today after a Section 60 authority was put in place there yesterday.

The authority was put in place following reports of fights between groups of people including I the Blenheim Chase, Suffolk Avenue, and Manchester Drive areas between about 3pm and 5pm.

Under Section 60 of the of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, officers do not need reasonable grounds to carry out a stop and search.

The authority was in place between 6.50pm and 4.50am and during that time, no further incidents of violence or disorder were reported.

Chief Inspector Ian Hughes, District Commander for Southend, said:

“I know incidents like this will cause concern in the community but Leigh is a really safe place to be.

“We won’t tolerate people carrying out violence and these extended powers are just one of the tools we have available to protect the public.

“I’m pleased to say we didn’t have any further violence in Leigh after the Section 60 was put in place.

“Officers also recovered a large knife and carried out three stop and searches.

“To reassure the public and deter any further incidents, officers from my Community Policing Team will be visible in the area throughout today so if you have any concerns, please speak to them.”

Chief Inspector Hughes added that there is a lot of work taking place across the Southend district to ensure you’re safe there this summer:

“Anyone causing trouble will be robustly dealt with as we take a zero-tolerance approach to criminality.

“Our priorities include minimising the opportunity to commit high-harm crimes, such as robbery and violence, tackling anti-social behaviour and policing the night-time economy.

“Officers will be focusing on seven key areas that are popular with the public in peak season. These includes large stretches of the waterfront from Shoebury to Old Leigh, and Southend High Street.

“My team have been working alongside partners at Southend-on-Sea City Council as members of the Southend Community Safety Partnership, along with the British Transport Police and local businesses, to share plans for dealing with the increase in footfall the warmer weather brings.

“We will also be working together with licensed premises and venues to monitor alcohol consumption.

“They are supported by the council’s team of CCTV operatives who play a vital role in highlighting suspicious behaviour or any potential flashpoints.

“We want residents and visitors to make the most of everything the city has to offer. We are engaging with the public and local businesses to let them know we are there to help keep them safe.

“We want Southend to be a prosperous place where people enjoy the hospitality but they must do so safely and responsibly, and respect the local area.

"Those who don’t act appropriately, or who harm others, will face the consequences.

"To all those who do act responsibly – thank you.”