Detectives are urging the gunman who shot a man in the face to give himself up.

The suspect has been on the run since the incident in Glenhurst Road, Southend, on Friday morning.

Hunt - a policeman in Glenhurst Road after the shooting Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

The victim, a man in his thirties, has been released from hospital and is staying at a secret address for his own safety.

Police arrested a 24-year-old man in connection with the incident at the weekend, but have since released him on bail, saying they believe they know the identity of the man responsible.

They are urging their suspect, a 28-year-old local man, to hand himself in at the nearest police station.

The victim was shot in the face with a pellet gun and has been released from hospital, where he was under police guard.

He is staying at an undisclosed address as police still fear for his safety while his attacker is still on the loose.

A police spokesman today said: "Police are seeking a 28-year-old man, whose identity they know. Maybe he would like to give himself up by calling at any police station, with or without a solicitor."

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may know where the gunman is.

Contact Southend CID on 01702 431212 or the confidential Crimestoppers line, anonymously,on 0800 555111

Published Monday, April 7 , 2003

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