A WORKER at a petrol station was punched by a man who refused to pay for fuel or to hand over his details to pay at a later date, a member of staff has claimed.

Essex Police have launched an investigation into reports of “threats being made” on Tuesday at the Esso in Somnes Avenue, Canvey.

A worker at the businesses has claimed that a member of staff was punched by the driver after asking him to leave contact details so he could pay for petrol at a later date.

Naresh Jagafand, who works at the fuelling station, said that his colleagues are now worried after the alleged attack.

He said: “A man put petrol in his vehicle and then told the staff he didn’t have the money to pay for it.

“He shouted at staff and police came and took details of the incident. The man hit my colleague and I think he punched him.

“My colleague is OK and was scared. The CCTV in that part of the petrol station is not working. It was a nasty incident.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information about the incident.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were called to reports of a disturbance in Somnes Avenue, Canvey at 2.55pm on Tuesday.

“ It was reported threats had been made to harm a man in his 40s.

“Enquiries are ongoing. If you have any information, CCTV, doorbell or dash cam footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“Please quote the crime reference number 42/203278/22.

You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

“Visit www.essex.police.

uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively you can call us on 101. In an emergency always call 999.

“If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.”