THREE arrests have now been made following assaults on police officers who were injured in an incident in Pitsea yesterday (Saturday, 23 July).

A 16-year-old boy from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of theft. He remains in custody this morning. A 14-year-old boy and a 19-year-old woman who were arrested in connection with the incident yesterday also remain in custody. 

 As part of the investigation, police have also recovered a number of items which were taken from officers during the incident yesterday and force enquiries are continuing today. 

There was a significant policing presence in Pitsea last night after four officers were assaulted.

Two officers were carrying out enquiries in Elm Green on a separate matter shortly after 3.30pm when they began speaking with a motorcyclist who they suspected of being too young to ride and who was not wearing a safety helmet. During that exchange, the rider attempted to drive off towards the officers; a man and a woman.

Whilst the officers attempted to deal with the incident and make an arrest, a group of people gathered at the scene, some of whom then assaulted the officers.

Both officers sustained injuries but did continue to make an arrest despite the challenges posed to them. They have opted to remain on duty.

During the incident, officers quickly responded to help their colleagues. As they did so, two of them were also assaulted. They did not sustain serious injury and have also remained on duty.

A number of items were taken from the first officers during the confrontation, which police have now recovered and two police cars also had tyres slashed.

Enquiries to locate other people who we believe to be involved are ongoing.

Detective Inspector Nick Brunton, who is leading the police investigation, said: "Those who know they were involved in this incident in any way can be assured, we will be collating evidence to identify you and you can expect a knock on your door. 

"We do not tolerate assaults on our officers. The officers who were in Elm Green were there in order to help the community. Instead, they have sustained injuries after being assaulted by several people simply for having the courage to carry out their duty.

"Thankfully none of the four officers who were hurt were seriously injured but this incident could have ended up being significantly worse.

"I would urge anyone who witnessed this incident or has information on it to get in touch.

"We need anyone who witnessed the incident, has doorbell or mobile phone footage of it to get in touch.

"You can submit 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. Please quote incident 887 of July 23 in any correspondence.

"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."