Armed police officers have arrested two people in Southend this evening (12 October 2024) as part of an ongoing investigation into a firearm-related incident that occurred in Shoebury on Friday, 11 October.
During Friday’s incident, it was reported that two people were in a vehicle, one of whom was seen with a firearm. Despite an extensive search by officers, no suspects were located at the time.
However, significant progress was made in the investigation today, which led to the arrest of a man and a woman in Southend this afternoon.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Hooper addressed concerns in the local area, stating: “We appreciate the policing presence in the area this afternoon may have caused concern. This was not a live incident, and our assessment remains that there was no threat to anyone in the area.
He confirmed that the suspects would be questioned on suspicion of firearm offences and provided reassurance regarding the Shoebury incident, saying: “The victims in that case were not injured, though understandably shaken. At this stage, we believe the incident was contained and occurred between people known to each other.”
Chief Supt Hooper also stressed that the incident is not connected to other recent reports in the city, assuring the community that there was no wider threat to public safety.
The investigation is ongoing.
