POLICE have now confirmed they deployed a taser during an incident in South Ockendon yesterday afternoon (Thursday, 18 August) when a man, who was later admitted to hospital where he remains, was detained.

A statement from Essex Police says: "We were called to reports of a disturbance in Buckles Lane, South Ockendon at 4.20pm after receiving calls reporting someone was damaging property and attacking members of the public.

"Officers attended and encountered a man they reported as acting aggressively. A taser was deployed and the man was detained.

"He later become unwell and was taken to hospital where he remains. His condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

"The incident has been reported to the Independent Office of Police Conduct which is standard practice in incidents like this.

"If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us. Please quote incident 829 of 18 August.

"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.

"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."