Stabbing celebration dubbed ‘shank fest’ sees teenagers submit knives and weapons on-line
Police have deployed enhanced stop-and-search powers in Southend-on-Sea after ‘shank fest’ posts circulated online, including screenshots allegedly showing masked youths
Social media posts suggested young people were planning to attend “shank fest”(Image: Instagram)
Police have rolled out enhanced stop-and-search powers after alarming social media posts suggested large numbers of young people were planning to attend “shank fest”. Shocking screenshots using the slang referencing knives featured masked youths posing with machetes and even a handgun.
Essex Police have issued a warning amid reports that large numbers of young people were planning to travel to Southend-on-Sea and cause disorder. Officers have also authorised extra powers, including Section 60, which allows police to stop and search people within a designated area without specific suspicion to help prevent serious violence and the carrying of weapons.
Section 60AA may also be used, giving officers the power to require individuals to remove face coverings if they are believed to be worn to conceal their identity.
Screenshots circulating on social media have fuelled concerns, with posts appearing to encourage trouble at the seafront as warm weather draws crowds. One widely shared image shows a spoof “event poster” branded “Southend Beach Shank Fest”.
In another post, two young men are pictured indoors wearing face coverings, posing with large machete-style blades. The accompanying caption asks who will be “live at Southend” the next day.
A third clip shared via Snapchat appears to show a person holding a handgun in an alleyway, alongside slang referring to gunfire. The reposted reaction compares the footage to “GTA”.
A further screenshot shows an individual in a hoodie and face covering holding a distinctive large blade, with overlaid text suggesting “Southend tomorrow”. Others resharing the post add warnings about it being “too dangerous” and advising people to stay away.
An Essex Police spokesperson said: “We are aware of plans for significant numbers of young people to travel to Southend seafront today. We want to be clear: Southend is a safe and welcoming place.
“It is not a place for violence, disorder or anti-social behaviour. Anyone coming here intending to commit crime will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.
“A range of policing powers will be in place in the city today, including dispersal orders and enhanced stop and search. This includes Section 60 powers, which allow officers to stop and search individuals without suspicion in designated areas to prevent serious violence and the carrying of weapons.
“In addition, Section 60AA powers may be used to require the removal of face coverings where they are being worn to conceal identity. These powers will be used proactively to keep people safe.
“You will see a significant and highly visible policing presence across the city, supported by live facial recognition technology, to identify those wanted for offences or who pose a risk to public safety. We are working closely with British Transport Police, Southend City Council, community safety teams and CCTV operators to monitor activity, share intelligence and respond quickly to any emerging issues.
“We expect the vast majority of people to enjoy the seafront responsibly. However, those who do not should expect to be identified, stopped and, where appropriate, arrested.
“It is set to be a warm and busy day. Anyone travelling into or out of the city may experience some disruption, so please allow extra time for your journeys.”
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