Basildon boy attacked as he walks home from school

Essex Police has launched an investigation into reports that the boy was assaulted in Timberlog Lane, at roughly 3.40pm.

The victim's mum took to social media to claim he was "punched and kicked" by the attackers, who targeted him while he travelled home. She said he was later taken to hospital due to injuries on his face.

READ MORE >> Police hunting man after jewellers is raided in the early hours of the morning

Maryam Yaqub, councillor for the St Martins Ward where the incident occurred, admitted it was a shocking incident and urged anyone with information to come forward and help the police investigation.

Adding that there would have been witnesses in the area due to the time of day.

She said: "One of the greatest concerns residents raise with me when I speak to them is around crime and anti-social behaviour.

"To hear that a young boy could be assaulted in broad daylight is not reassuring to say the least.

"We need more CCTV in key areas like this to prevent incidents from occurring and to help identify offenders if an incident does occur.

"If anyone has witnessed this incident or has footage of the assault, please come forward."

The incident took place last Thursday, May 5, with police also urging witnesses to come forward.

Nothing was stolen from the boy during the incident. A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are investigating after receiving reports that a boy was assaulted in Timberlog Lane, Basildon, at around 3.40pm on Thursday 5 May.

"Our enquiries are ongoing, and we are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has dash cam or doorbell footage to get in touch.

"If you have any information, you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

"Please quote incident 790 of May 5.

"You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."