POLICE are probing a disturbance in Purfleet last night which involved around 100 people and resulted in two people being taken to hospital by accident after a suspected acid-throwing.

The drama was played out on Caspian Way in Purfleet and stretched from early into late evening, as darkness fell.

A police statement says: "We received a number of calls at around 7.15pm yesterday (Saturday 27 June), about a large gathering of people in Caspian Way. We received reports that up to 100 people were gathering and there were concerns around loud music and possible drug use.

"We received a report of an altercation between a man and a woman over a road related issue with further information that this man had thrown an unknown liquid at two people.

"They were taken to hospital for precautionary checks and a 43-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of assault.

"There were no other reported incidents and the group dispersed shortly afterwards and we'd like to thank people for their co-operation.

"Anyone with information about the assault is asked to call Grays CID on 101 quoting incident 1229 of 27/06. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."