Essex Police confirmed that they have arrested six people in Basildon in connection with an incident where officers had petrol thrown over them while making an arrest on Sunday (5th May) evening.
Police confirmed that they received reports that a motorcycle was being driven dangerously and erratically along footpaths, through underpasses and on roads in Canvey at around 4.30pm.
With the assistance of the police helicopter, police followed the bike, which was reported stolen, and the rider was later detained in Ward Close, Basildon.
While making an arrest, officers were threatened with a hammer and had petrol thrown in their faces.
Two women, a boy and three men were all arrested after a call for urgent assistance was put out by the officer.
Superintendent Jonathan Baldwin said:
“While attempting to detain the motorcyclist, a number of police officers had petrol thrown into their faces and over their clothing.
“Two were taken to hospital to have petrol washed out of their eyes. A number of others were doused by fire officers at the scene with water.
“Fortunately, we do not anticipate any long-term harm will come to the officers involved and some were able to carry on with their duties.
“I am proud of the way my officers dealt with this incident, acting professionally and with dignity in the face of certain individuals who appeared intent on causing trouble.
“To be assaulted while simply doing our jobs – helping to keep our county safe and dealing with criminal and violent behaviour – is completely unacceptable under any circumstance.
“But, to have petrol thrown over their heads and in their eyes as my officers experienced today, is a despicable act of violence which we will seek to prosecute to the full extent of the law.
“I would urge anyone with information to call Basildon CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
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Hope that the officers are okay, the eval people who did this get locked up for a long time 😡😡😡😡