FOLLOWING another incidence of anti-social behaviour in Grays this week, a leading Thurrock police officer has once again stated the local force is committed to tackling the problem.

Following reports from the public, officers from Thurrock's Local Policing Team were sent on patrol in Grays High Street on Monday evening (13 April), to check on a large group of youths involved in anti-social behaviour.

A statement from the force says: "Due to concerns raised, including mentions of possible weapons, officers took necessary action to ensure public safety. This included engaging with those involved, carrying out stop and searches, and unfortunately for one young man – the seizure of his scooter.

"These actions helped prevent further disruption and provided reassurance to residents, businesses, and visitors in the town centre.

"Keeping Grays High Street safe remains a key priority.

"We encourage the public to continue reporting anti-social behaviour — your information allows us to act quickly and effectively.

Grays High Street.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Dan Selby added: "We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour in Grays High Street. Officers took decisive action following incidents involving groups of under 18s and children causing nuisance in the town centre.

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A scooter was seized and individuals were searched to ensure no items or weapons were being carried that could place others at risk. This action was proportionate, necessary and entirely appropriate.

"Let me be clear: while the majority of young people behave responsibly, disruptive and intimidating behaviour will be challenged.

"We will be robust in our approach to make sure that law abiding people using Grays High Street feel safe. I would encourage residents, businesses and visitors to continue reporting anti-social behaviour.

"The Thurrock Neighbourhood Policing Team is listening, and responding to anti social behaviour in our town centres remains a clear policing priority for us."

Police have also confirmed that an off-road bike being ridden in an unsafe and anti-social manner was seized after an incident in Chadwell St Mary last week.

On Wednesday 8 April, officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team were out on proactive patrols following concerns raised by local residents about off‑road bikes being ridden in an unsafe and anti‑social manner.

While in the Chadwell St Mary area, officers noticed several off‑road vehicles being ridden dangerously. These vehicles attempted to make off through Orsett Heath Crescent, however officers were able to safely detain one rider.

The electric Sur‑Ron bike seized in Chadwell St Mary.

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An electric Sur‑Ron bike was seized, and the rider was reported under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act for having no insurance.

A police statement added: "We understand how concerning this type of behaviour can be for residents. Riding off‑road vehicles dangerously puts both the rider and members of the community at risk, and we will continue to take action to keep our neighbourhoods safe."

Police have asked residents to report all incidents that cause public concern via the following link to their reporting portal. https://www.essex.police.uk/ro/report/?utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery

Recent incidents in Grays have caused considerable public concern most notably a knife-wielding youth on Blackshots Park and groups of men fighting on Clarence Road. Last month a violent incident on the High Street saw a man injured after being attacked by a gang.