MORE CCTV must be installed in Basildon’s parks and town centre to protect women who are being “left traumatised” by encounters with “masked men”, a senior councillor has insisted.

Maryam Yaqub, leader of the Labour group in Basildon, has demanded the council increase security measures to protect “women and girls” following repeated reports of sex assaults.

Last month, Essex Police issued an appeal for information raising concerns that multiple victims had taken to social media to report being sexually assaulted in and around Gloucester Park, but had not reported it to the force.

It followed an alleged sex assault in February in Upper Mayne, close to the park, which sparked additional police patrols.

Ms Yaqub praised Essex Police for upping patrols but claimed sex assaults are becoming a “distressing reality” for women living in the borough.

Ms Yaqub said: “I have called for this debate because violence against women is an urgent issue that demands our immediate attention.

“It is imperative that we take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, regardless of gender.

“As a woman, my concern for the safety of individuals in Basildon is deeply personal. Instances where mothers are left traumatised by encounters with masked assailants and women enduring the horrors of sexual assault perpetrated by individuals in hoodies are on the rise.”

The Labour councillor, who is responsible for the St Martin’s ward, has called on the council to collaborate with Essex Police to increase patrols further in “high-risk” areas.

Ms Yaqub also wants funding allocated to support community organisations aiding victims, educational initiatives on gender-based violence prevention, and training provided for council staff on supporting survivors.

She adds: To effectively address and mitigate these incidents on Basildon streets, we need to increase patrols in high-risk areas, implement comprehensive CCTV coverage in remote underpasses, and set up educational initiatives aimed at combating gender-based violence.”

Following reports of the sexual assault in February, Essex Police has continued to have an additional police presence in Gloucester Park and surrounding areas.

The force has desperately urged any woman who may have been a victim, but not contacted police, to report crimes as soon as possible.