A GANG of roughly 50 yobs armed with “knives and baseball bats” chased a group of teenagers and demanded they handed over their bikes.

The teenagers were forced to take shelter in the Sports Direct at Southend Airport’s retail park for safety after being targeted by the weapon-wielding gang.

Worried parents took to social media after the incident on Sunday between 1pm and 2pm, claiming the group of cyclists were “ chased by around 50 kids with baseball bats and knives”.

Another parent said her child was left “scared” after the incident.

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A weapon search was carried out on four people at the scene but no weapons were recovered.

Roche South ward councillor Mike Steptoe slammed the behaviour and assured the council would assist with any police enquiries.

Mr Steptoe added: “It’s not behaviour we want to see.

“It’s a form of bullying.

“It’s not something we can ever allow in our society.

“I think it’s down to education and having youth groups understand that they can’t treat others in this manner.

“If there’s any requirements, the council will assist.”

Councillor James Gooding slammed the yobs involved.

He added: “Any behaviour like that is unacceptable and we will try to work with the police to stamp anything like this out.

“We have got to work out a way from stopping things like this from happening by giving young people other interests and things to engage with.”

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: “Officers responded to reports of a disturbance near Southend Airport’s Business Park on Sunday 30 May.

“It was reported that a large group of teenagers, who were on foot and dressed in black tracksuits, were chasing another group of teenagers, who were cycling through the area.

“The cyclists believed that the first group were trying to steal their bikes.

“We stopped and searched four people following reports that some teenagers had been in the possession of knives.

“No weapons were recovered.”

“Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 101 and quote the incident number 498 of 30 May.

“If you would prefer to remain anonymous you can contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.”