A SERIES of incidents in Southend tonight - including violence with weapons - has triggered additional stop and search powers for police. 

The move follows a number of incidents of disorder in the seafront area.

Police say they will not tolerate people travelling to Southend to commit violence. 

A spokesman said: "We are dealing with incidents including violence with weapons and a robbery which have all been called into us since about 7.20pm.

"One man has already been arrested on suspicion of robbery.

"Another man has also been arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon after a knife was found in a bag."

In response, additional stop and search powers have been granted under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

Echo: Southend disorder - the area covered by the additional search powers ordered by police Southend disorder - the area covered by the additional search powers ordered by police

This is an extension of the stop and search powers officers already use responsibly and means they do not need reasonable grounds to stop and search someone.

Due to this change in these powers, police have an obligation to make the public aware when a Section 60 Authorisation is in place, the area it covers, and how long it will be in place for. This is referenced in the map above. 

It will be in place from 8.10pm today (Friday June 17), until 8.10pm tomorrow (Saturday June 18).

The spokesman added: "We have also redirected additional officers from our Operational Support Group (OSG) to the Southend area to provide additional police presence, deter more incidents from taking place, and tackle those intent on committing harm and crime.

"We won't tolerate violence."

Insp David Gardiner added: “We won’t tolerate people coming to Southend and carrying out acts of violence.

“These extended powers are just one of the tools we have available to protect the public and keep you safe.

“You are likely to see an increased police presence in and around Southend, particularly the seafront area but please do not be alarmed.

“I want to thank the public in advance for your understanding and co-operation.”