TWO teenagers have been arrested after an armed gang threatened a driver with large knives and machetes.

A group of four youths, two of whom were riding BMX-style bikes, approached a red Volkswagen Scirocco in Highfield Gardens, Westcliff, and threatened the driver with large knives at about 3.40pm on Monday.

After the alarm was raised, officers from Essex Police’s Operational Support Group (OSG) managed to quickly get to the scene and track down two suspects.

A large knife and a machete were also recovered from near the scene after the suspects tried to ditch them in a garden.

The OSG team were already in Southend to help assist local officers with the influx of bikers expected for the Southend Shakedown on Monday.

A spokesman for the team said on Twitter: “Following a reported robbery, two males make from us. You can’t outrun us but you can try and throw items over garden fences. Very nasty weapons removed from the streets.”

Two other suspects were able to make off and avoid arrest by the officers, sparking a police appeal for information.

A spokesman for the force said: “Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of robbery. A group of four youths approached a red Volkswagen Scirocco at 3.40pm and threatened the driver with knives.

“Officers searched the area and an 18-year-old boy from Westcliff was detained in Shakespeare Drive. He was arrested on suspicion of robbery, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of drugs with intent to supply.

“A 15-year-old boy from Westcliff was detained near Prittlewell Chase and arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. Both remain in custody for questioning.

“Enquiries are ongoing to locate the other suspects who rode off on BMX-style bikes.”

Essex Police say they are “open-minded” about the motive.

Deputy Chief Constable BJ Harrington praised the officers on Twitter adding: “Tremendous arrests by Essex OSG. Horrendous weapons but thanks to great police work two people are in custody and these are off the streets.”