Police and Lakeside management issue statement about centre's safety despite a rising number of incidents

By Nub News Reporter

22nd May 2023 | Local News

DESPITE a catalogue of incidents this year - and the verdict today (Monday, 22 May) of murder after a man was stabbed to death in its food court, the management of Lakeside Shopping centre and Essex Police have united in a statement to say the centre is a safe place.

Leading the way is the recently installed Thurrock Police commander, Temporary Chief Inspector Tony Atkin, who catagorically says "Lakeside is safe".

Speaking after today's verdict ACI Atkin said: "This was a tragic incident where Michael Ugwa needlessly lost his life.

"This would have been shocking for people at Lakeside at the time. This was an isolated incident as a result of a chance meeting and interaction and, thankfully, incidents of violence at the shopping centre are really rare.

"I want to reassure people that Lakeside is a safe place and you shouldn't be afraid of going there. Lakeside hosts thousands of people daily, who go about their business without incident.

"We work hard with Lakeside's management team to ensure your safety including regular patrols by our dedicated Lakeside team in and around the shopping centre.

"In February alone my team there completed more than 150 hours of high visibility foot patrols.

"They are supported by the centre's management and security teams, and have also built great relationships with people who work there.

"These connections mean they can respond swiftly to incidents and identify potential suspects.

"And the fantastic CCTV coverage at the centre is one of the reasons we've been able to bring Michael's killer to justice."

Howard Oldstein, Centre Director at Lakeside, said: "This was a tragic incident and we extend our deepest condolences to Michael's family and friends.

"We know that many will have been shocked by the news, but we would like to reassure all that incidents of this nature are incredibly rare – and that this was an isolated case.

"Here at Lakeside, the safety and wellbeing of all who visit the centre is our number one priority. We have a highly trained security team on site, able to respond quickly to any issue, as well as a close working relationship with the local police – with a dedicated Lakeside team making regular patrols."

Yet on on a number of occasions in the first five months of the year, Nub News has reported on shocking incidents at the centre - and residents have regularly taken to social media to say they do not feel security is strong enough.