A teenage girl was attacked by a group of masked thugs in what police believe was a targeted assault.

The victim was attacked from behind by two or three people in Boyden Close, Southend.

The attackers were all dressed in black, and wore balaclavas.

The victim reported that she was dragged to the floor and kicked, before the group made off in the direction of Newington Avenue.

At least one of the people is believed to have called the victim by her name prior to the assault.

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The victim, a teenage girl, was not seriously injured but was left shaken by the incident, which happened around 7.20pm on Wednesday (March 24).

A police spokesman said: “We would like to speak to anyone in the area who witnessed the incident, particularly two people who were sat on a nearby bench, and assisted the victim after the assault.

“If you live in the area and have CCTV or dashcam which may have captured the assault, please get in touch.

“If you have any information you can call Southend CID on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/52001/21.”

If you would prefer to remain anonymous you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.