Colin Cox pledges to tackle anti-social group in Colchester

A Gazette report revealed the group of masked delinquents are terrorising shop workers and acting aggressively to passers-by.

One city centre worker, in his thirties, said the troublemakers have assaulted schoolchildren and threatened to stab others.

Chief Insp Colin Cox, district commander for Colchester, said residents have his “commitment” that the issue will be tackled.

Pledge - district commander for Colchester Colin Cox (Image: Newsquest)

He said: “Anti-social behaviour of any kind can have a significant and ongoing impact on the lives of our communities.

“Ongoing issues can impact on the wellbeing of residents and it’s something we work hard with our partners to tackle.

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“The people of Colchester have my commitment that this work will continue.

“We will ensure we continue to maintain a visible police presence in any areas where reports of such behaviour persist.”

Action - Lion Walk boss Martin Leatherdale has vowed to tackle troublemakers

Mr Cox said between April 2017 and April 2023, officers recorded 3,244 fewer anti-social behaviour incidents in Colchester with 2,066 reported in the year to April.

“But the ongoing issues referred to highlight how a small number of individuals can cause significant issues for others,” he added.

“Local officers continue to work closely with the BID and ColBac, and the Town Centre Team – which has seen increased investment – to regularly conduct high visibility patrols.

“Rest assured, we will target those responsible for causing these issues.”

Trouble - Colchester city centre (Image: Newsquest)

The trouble has also been seen in Lion Walk Shopping Centre, with manager Martin Leatherdale pledging to “nip it in the bud”.

He said: “We have a zero tolerance policy to anti-social behaviour in the city centre.

“I have held high level meetings with Essex Police and Colchester Council seniors to discuss some issues and we are working closely to nip this behaviour in the bud.

“The city centre is a very safe place to shop and work but unfortunately there are a handful of minors who are known to us letting themselves down.

“My team with the support of the police are taking appropriate robust action including action that restricts certain individuals from entering the city centre.”

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