A 15-year-old boy from north London has been charged after two teenagers were stabbed during a large-scale brawl involving approximately 30 people in Southend, Essex. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, faces charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of a Class B drug.
Essex Police responded to reports of a violent altercation on Southend High Street at around 7:50 PM on Friday, May 1. Witnesses described a chaotic scene with individuals allegedly armed with knives and bottles. Emergency services quickly arrived, and two teenage victims were found with non-life-threatening knife wounds to their faces.
The 15-year-old suspect is scheduled to appear at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on June 22. In a related development, a 12-year-old girl from Southend was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and violent disorder.
Increased Police Presence and Dispersal Orders
To ensure public safety during the bank holiday weekend, police have increased patrols in Southend. A dispersal order under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act has been implemented, covering Southend High Street, Queensway through to Hamlet Court Road, and the seafront. This order, effective until 8 PM on Sunday, authorizes officers to disperse individuals engaged in anti-social behavior.
Additionally, a Section 60 order under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act remains in place until 8:45 PM on Sunday, May 3. This grants police enhanced stop-and-search powers to prevent further violence.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has shocked the local community, with residents expressing concern over youth violence. Police are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with information to come forward. Authorities emphasize that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those involved will face legal consequences.
