“Never Seen Anything Like It!“ | Southend Locals Say Area Is ’Beset By Terrifying Gangs’

Essex Police have said they “categorically reject” the idea that any part of Southend is a “no-go zone”, amid criticism of crime levels in the seaside town. A group of teenagers was charged earlier this month after youths, some brandishing machetes, fought on the resort town’s seafront on the evening of July 30. Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett said officers had “responded quickly and robustly, making arrests within minutes”. He added that eight people charged “have not gone home as they are still remanded in custody”. Talk’s Mike Graham is joined by cabinet member for culture, tourism and business Matt Dent, who says he has lived in Southend his whole life and “never seen anything like it“. Click here for more from Talk If you need any help visit: #crime #knives #knifecrime