Essex Police dismiss ‘no-go zones’ claim in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea safe despite violent incident, say Essex Police
Essex Police firmly dismissed claims that parts of Southend-on-Sea are “no-go zones” following a violent incident in the city earlier this summer. The police issued a statement countering negative reports in the national media, which suggested that youth violence plagued certain areas of Southend.
On 30 July, several arrests occurred after a fight near Southend’s Adventure Island theme park, with social media footage showing some individuals wielding machetes. Eight teenagers faced charges related to the incident, including a 16-year-old boy who appeared in court on 3 August. He was accused of attempted murder, possession of a firearm, carrying a prohibited weapon in public, and violent disorder.
Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett stated, “I completely and categorically reject the assertion that any part of Southend is a ‘no-go zone’.” He highlighted that thousands visit the city weekly, enjoying its attractions. He emphasised that Southend remains safe, with declining crime rates outpacing most of the county.
❗️A machete fight broke out on the seafront in Southend, Essex, during a "beach rave" on July 30, 2024. The incident involved at least four people brandishing machete near the Adventure Island theme park.#violence #Southend #UK pic.twitter.com/A4TvibMAGa
— International Crisis Room 360 (@ICR360) July 31, 2024
Essex Police data showed a 6.5% decrease in overall crimes in the Southend district last year, equating to 1,500 fewer crimes. Violent crimes dropped by 12%, with 1,000 fewer incidents compared to the previous year. Operation Union, active throughout the summer, contributed significantly to these improvements, resulting in over 75 arrests and 230 stop and searches.
The police encouraged people to visit and enjoy Southend’s seafront, pier, and city centre. Southend achieved city status in 2022, following a campaign by the late MP Sir David Amess, who was fatally stabbed in nearby Leigh-on-Sea. Queen Elizabeth II granted the city status posthumously in his honour in October 2021.
There'll be an increased visible police presence in Southend this evening and tomorrow after we made 8 arrests responding quickly to disorder there.
Chief Supt Leighton Hammett: “Southend is a really safe place and disorder like that is not common here."https://t.co/Q6TieI3G0c pic.twitter.com/noamtpBERy
— Essex Police (@EssexPoliceUK) July 31, 2024
The 16-year-old involved in the 30 July incident was remanded in youth detention and is scheduled to appear at Basildon Crown Court on 2 September. Prosecutor Godfried Duah informed the court that a machete or large knife was seen during the disorder, which erupted as families enjoyed the summer holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Is Southend-on-Sea a no-go zone?
No, Essex Police categorically reject claims that Southend-on-Sea is a no-go zone.
What happened in Southend-on-Sea in July?
On 30 July, a violent incident occurred near Adventure Island, leading to several arrests.
How has crime changed in Southend-on-Sea recently?
Crime in Southend-on-Sea has fallen, with 1,500 fewer crimes and a 12% drop in violent crimes last year.
What is Operation Union?
Operation Union is a summer initiative by Essex Police that has resulted in over 75 arrests and 230 stop and searches.
When did Southend-on-Sea become a city?
Southend-on-Sea became a city in 2022, following a decision by Queen Elizabeth II after MP Sir David Amess’s death.
