Six people have been arrested and weapons seized after violence on Southend seafront.

A section 60 dispersal order, which gives officers authority to exercise powers of stop and search, is in place after reports of violence around 7pm on Tuesday night.

Footage on social media appeared to show at least four people in black waving machetes near the Adventure Island theme park.

Southend councillor Daniel Cowan tweeted: “I’m urging calm and encouraging people to avoid Jubilee beach this evening as @EssexPoliceUK deal with a large influx of young people.

“It’s a developing situation that CCTV is monitoring and more police resources are en route to support the dispersal order that is in place.”

Exxex Police said the order will remain in place until 8pm on Wednesday.

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‘Zero-tolerance approach’

Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin said: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to violence, disorder and carrying weapons in Essex.

“We have a large number of officers in the city centre, who have already seized a number of weapons and made quick arrests following these incidents.

“Our officers are working closely with our local partners and businesses to make sure they are safe and supported. We want to make sure our communities are safe and we will use all the appropriate powers at our disposal to do so.

“Our officers have responded to these incidents reported by members of the public this evening, and the information they provided is invaluable.”

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He added: “I would also like to thank the vast law-abiding majority of the public for their co-operation today.

“But we know there are other witnesses to these incidents who may have important details to share.

“We will have a visible presence in Southend this evening and tomorrow – if you know something, please speak to one of our officers or contact us to help.”

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