THREE teenage boys have been arrested after officers quickly responded to an incident in Pitsea at about 1.20pm yesterday (Sunday, 4 December).

Police received a number of reports of a group of people acting suspiciously, some of whom were reported to be carrying weapons.

As officers arrived, the group fled the area. Officers followed the group through Pitsea Market and safely arrested them close to Pitsea Library.

Two boys aged 17 and one boy aged 15 were arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and attempted GBH.

Further enquiries led police to believe a teenage boy had sustained an injury earlier in the day. His injury is neither life-threatening nor life-changing. He is being now safeguarded by officers.

The three arrested have been questioned and released on bail as enquiries progress. 

A police statement: "We need anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information on it to contact us. 

"Please quote crime reference 42/293564/22.

"You can let us know by submitting 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."