POLICE officers are appealing for witnesses following what is believed to be a racially-aggravated assault and criminal damage in Chafford Hundred on Sunday afternoon, (14 April).

Officers were called to Fleming Road, close to the rail station, at 5.10pm and were at the scene within 10 minutes.

At least two suspects had assaulted a man in his car, using what has been described as a metal bar. They also caused extensive damage to the victim's car.

The victim, who is black, was taken to hospital with injuries to his arm.

A police statement says early enquiries have indicated that there may have been an altercation earlier in the afternoon.

The suspects left the area. One was in a white van and a second is believed to have left the scene on foot. The suspects are described as white men and one was wearing a grey tracksuit.

Inspector Terry Fisher said "We are working quickly to investigate this assault. No arrests have been made at this stage.

"We would ask anyone who was in the area at the time and saw the incident or has any information or footage to get in touch.

"We take incidents of this nature very seriously. I know this would be concerning to the community and I can reassure you that our investigation is progressing at pace.

"We believe this was an isolated incident, but I would urge anyone with information to come forward.

"We are aware of footage circulating on social media. We would ask people to make sure they share any information they have with us."

An Essex Police appeal says: "If you can help please quote incident number 42/59326/24 when providing information.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101to 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 on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.