A gang of youths damaged property and attacked a teenager with a baseball bat in a "targeted, isolated incident."

Police were called to reports of a group of teenagers inflicting damage to a property on Pitseaville Grove, Vange, around 5.30pm last night.

A teenage boy from the address was assaulted with a baseball bat when trying to approach the group.

His injuries are not considering life-threatening or life-changing.

After assaulting the boy the group then left the area, also stealing a push bike from the property.

They are all described as wearing dark clothing and it’s believed they may have travelled on push bikes and a moped.

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Police say to help prevent further disorder and keep the wider community safe, additional stop-and-search powers were authorised overnight.

Inspector Marcus Dodd said: “At this time, we believe that this was a targeted, isolated incident.

“I know this will be worrying to local residents but we do not believe there is a wider threat to the community.

“As soon as the reports were received, officers were deployed to support the victims and identify anyone still in the area who may be intent on committing crime.

“We are continuing to follow all lines of enquiry today to identify those involved and will be speaking with local residents.

“If you witnessed the incident, have any information, or have any relevant dashcam or CCTV footage, please get in contact with us.

“We will appreciate any information you can provide.”

If you have any information you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

Please quote incident 916 of 25 November.

You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.