A TEENAGER in South Ockendon was assaulted, knocked unconscious and then doused in petrol by a gang of young men.

The incident happened on Broxburn Drive shortly after 9pm on Saturday, 14 March. Detectives investigating the assault have made two arrests and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Enquiries have continued at pace since the incident when the teenager was assaulted by a group of suspects.

While he was unconscious, it was further reported that petrol was poured on him. He has since made a recovery and is being supported throughout the police investigation.

Following initial enquiries, two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, from South Ockendon, were arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm and administering a noxious substance.

They remain on bail while enquiries continue.

A police statement says: "We believe there may have been witnesses in the area at the time. If you have information or footage that could assist our investigation, please come forward.

"Please quote crime reference 42/39656/26.

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"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."