POLICE are continuing their investigation into Friday night's shocking double stabbing in Chalkwell.

Two teenagers, both aged 15, were rushed to hospital after they were injured in a mass brawl in Chalkwell Esplanade, near to the train station, at around 7pm.

One had head and leg injuries, including a stab wound to the leg, while the other suffered a stab wound to his arm.

Police say none of their injuries were life-threatening.

Two people have been arrested in connection with the incident so far.

Halstead Gazette:

An 18-year-old man from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and possession of drugs, while a 20-year-old man from South Ockendon was arrested on suspicion of affray.

Police said both men were still being questioned yesterday afternoon.

Extra stop and search powers granted

Officers were able to bring an end to the violence in Chalkwell Esplanade with the help of British Transport Police.

But they were then called to another disturbance at nearby Chalkwell Park amid reports of loud music and a large gathering.

The park was closed and the group were moved on.

Additional stop-and-search powers were then granted to police amid concerns about further violence and unrest.

An order was put in place around Chalkwell Park which meant officers could search anyone without having reasonable grounds to stop them.

Halstead Gazette:

The order was in place between 8.45pm on Friday until 6am on Saturday.

A total of 33 people were stopped but no weapons were found.

Police say one person was given a community resolution for possession of cannabis and two vehicles were seized for having no insurance.

Extra patrols were carried out throughout the day to reassure residents.

Police: 'Incidents like this are rare'

Det Chief Insp Jim Sandford has sought to ease concerns about the violence in Chalkwell and praised officers for responding quickly to Friday's brawl.

In an update yesterday afternoon, he said: “I know this incident was very concerning for local residents and I would like to thank them for their ongoing support and their understanding.

“Our officers responded quickly and robustly to deal with those who felt it was acceptable to cause disorder and as a result of this action their behaviour was curtailed.

“We are continuing to support the two young victims who were injured and detectives have been working throughout the night to investigate what happened.

“Incidents like this are thankfully rare and our officers worked alongside colleagues from the British Transport Police to swiftly deal with the disorder.

“The additional stop and search powers and patrols were put in place to prevent any further crimes and it is reassuring that of those people stopped, no weapons were found and there were no arrests made.

“Officers patrolled throughout the evening and continue to do so today to ensure people feel safe and I would urge anyone with information about yesterday’s incident or any concerns to please speak to them.”

Detectives say they have had a number of eyewitnesses come forward already.

Anyone with information should contact Southend CID on 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.