LATE on Saturday evening 30 November) and in the wake of an earlier Thurrock Nub News report, Essex police confirmed action has taken place in the East of the borough to combat anti-social behaviour.

One of the findings of the police action and a review of recent times is that a surge in crime indicated by social media reports does not stand up to scrutiny.

A statement issued by the force says: "Following concerns raised of a small group causing Anti-Social Behaviour in Corringham and Stanford-le-Hope Town Centres, a joint operation between the Town Centre Team for Stanford and the dedicated neighbourhood officers for Corringham was started.

"This operation is being overseen by Sergeant Ben Forbes, lead for Thurrock Town Centre Teams.

"Today, officers have worked additional hours providing visible, engaging, reassurance patrols in Corringham town centre.

"Businesses, members of the public and residents were engaged with and no reported concerns or allegation of crimes were passed to police within the town centre.

"Furthermore, the operation has conducted a review of the recent anti-social behaviour in Stanford-le-Hope and no allegation of crimes have been received.

"Officers will continue to engage with anyone who wishes to work with police and Thurrock Council to investigate and prevent anti-social behaviour or criminality in our town centres.

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"More high visibility and covert patrols are planned for the upcoming weeks."