Ten teenagers sentenced to more than 34 years after Southend machete fight
The large scale incident left two people seriously injured
Ten teenagers have been sentenced at Basildon Crown Court for their roles in a violent machete fight that rocked Southend’s seafront last summer, leaving two people seriously injured and prompting a large-scale police response.
The incident unfolded on the evening of July 30, 2024, when Essex Police were called to reports of a group of young people armed with weapons gathering near the seafront.
Officers responded within minutes, arresting several suspects aged between 14 and 18. CCTV footage later showed the group assembling in nearby side streets before violence erupted.
Over the following months, Essex Police carried out a detailed investigation, which led to more arrests and, ultimately, 10 individuals pleading guilty to various offences including violent disorder, conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm, and possession of weapons.
The defendants, who appeared in court over a two-day hearing on July 14 and 15, received the following sentences:
- Tyler Omo-Irogho, 19, from Watford, sentenced to 3 years and 3 months for assaulting an emergency worker, violent disorder, and possessing a bladed article.
- Michael King, 18, from South Woodford, sentenced to 7 years and 6 months for violent disorder and conspiracy to commit GBH.
- Mekai Brown, 19, from Woodford Green, sentenced to 8 years for violent disorder and conspiracy to commit GBH.
- Lucas Braga, 18, from Stratford, sentenced to 2 years for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.
- Isaac Bello, 18, from Woodford Green, sentenced to 2 years for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.
- Hamza Dinbil, 18, from Stratford, sentenced to 1 year and 10 months for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.
- A 17-year-old from London, sentenced to 6 years and 11 months for violent disorder, conspiracy to commit GBH, and two firearms offences.
- A 17-year-old from London, to receive a referral order in Youth Court for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.
- A 17-year-old from Basildon, sentenced to a 20-month Detention and Training Order for violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.
- A 15-year-old from Pitsea, sentenced to an 18-month Detention and Training Order for violent disorder, conspiracy to commit GBH, and possession of an offensive weapon.
Her Honour Judge Samantha Cohen praised officers involved in the investigation, highlighting Investigation Officer Gemma Gibson and CCTV Evidence Officer Sarah Wyard for their critical roles in tracking the suspects.
She also commended Detective Sergeant Mike Ferguson and Detective Constable Tracey Scorah for their leadership throughout the case.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe, who led the investigation, said: “My team’s tireless work—reviewing CCTV, interviewing witnesses, and analysing forensic evidence—left the suspects with no choice but to plead guilty. I hope their sentencing sends a clear message to anyone thinking of bringing violence to our streets.”
Metcalfe confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with police still seeking two individuals in connection with the incident. CCTV images have been released, and the public is urged to come forward with any information or footage from the night of the incident.
Chief Superintendent Chris Bradford commented: “Last summer, a small group among thousands of law-abiding visitors thought they would bring disorder to Southend. They have now faced the consequences of their reckless and dangerous actions.”
Southend City Council also issued a joint statement in support of the police. Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend City Council, said: “Today’s result shows what can be achieved when we work together to protect our city. I’m proud of our partnership with Essex Police.”
Cllr Martin Terry, cabinet member for community safety, added: “Southend is open for business, not for crime. We’ve worked hard to rebuild trust with the public and local businesses.”
As Southend prepares for the peak of the summer tourist season once again, authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming environment. Patrols on the seafront have been stepped up, and officers continue to monitor for any signs of disruption.
Anyone with information or footage related to the July 2024 incident is urged to contact Essex Police. Images of two remaining suspects are circulating on social media, and officers are appealing for help to identify them.