News 1 October to 7 October
 Bulphan | Orsett | Tilbury: Tackling off-road vehicles
We share the concern felt following incidents of anti-social behaviour linked to the use of quad bikes in the Thurrock district.
Our officers have been responding, utilising a number of tactics including the help of the National Police Air Service helicopter.
We recently received reports of three males on a quad bike firing a slingshot at passing animals and members of the public. This was reported to us in the Bulphan/Orsett area at around 5pm on Wednesday 1 October.
We swiftly attended and carried out a lengthy area search, eventually spotting the quad bike at Orsett Heath playing fields. A foot chase followed and the quad bike was seized. Enquiries are ongoing to locate the suspects through a number of investigative avenues, including forensic opportunities.
Later that evening, a second quadbike was recovered in Tilbury after a woman was seen driving with two young children on board. No persons on the quad bike had helmets or protective equipment. The vehicle was seized and the driver dealt with accordingly for driving without insurance.
Sergeant Adam Priest said:
“We understand that the anti-social and often dangerous use of quad bikes is having an impact on our neighbourhoods.
“We know that people who are committing offences are often linked to other offending in the area that causes suffering for residents.
“Whilst we were unable to locate the offenders at the time on this occasion, my team are following up investigations to identify the individuals involved.
“By locating the quad bikes and taking these off the streets, it does have an impact and assists us with further enquiries.”
A man has been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.
Whilst on routine patrols in Chadwell St Mary, our roads policing officers spotted a car displaying false registration plates.
As they activated their blue lights, indicating for the driver to stop, the car sped off with officers in pursuit.
The driver decamped from the car in Felicia Way but was stopped and arrested on Thursday 26 September.
Essex Police has made 328 arrests in September as part of a dedicated road safety response targeting drink and drug drivers across the county.
The figures mark the highest monthly figures for drug driving since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
This proactive enforcement saw officers from teams across the force working together to identify and remove dangerous drivers from our roads. The breakdown of arrests includes:
- 85 for drink driving
- 169 for drug driving
- 21 for failing to provide a breath test
- 53 for driving while unfit through drink or drugs
These figures reflect a robust response to a growing concern: driver behaviour that puts lives at risk and threatens the safety of our neighbourhoods.
Road safety is a top priority for Essex Police. Every decision to get behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs is a decision that could cost lives or seriously injure someone.
 Fitness to Drive: A new approach to road safety
We are working with East Anglian DriveAbility to offer Fitness to Drive assessments for older drivers involved in road incidents. These assessments, run by occupational therapists and driving instructors, help identify medical or cognitive issues that may affect driving. The aim is to improve road safety while helping people stay independent for longer.
Drivers over 70, or those with medical conditions or adapted vehicles, may be referred for checks including eyesight tests, reaction times, and a practical drive. Outcomes range from being cleared to drive, needing further training, or being referred to the DVLA.
This initiative supports safer roads and helps families feel confident their loved ones are driving safely.
Our officers secure more than 320 shop theft charges in a single month
Our officers charged 84 people with more than 320 shop theft offences in September, alongside six charges for assaulting retail staff. Many suspects appeared in court the next day, with some already sentenced.
Thanks to strong CCTV evidence and witness statements, officers are solving more cases - 1,627 more shoplifting offences were solved in the past year compared to the previous one.
The Business Crime Team is working closely with retailers to prevent theft and speed up investigations. Rapid Video Response officers now help gather evidence remotely, allowing suspects to be taken straight to custody.
Recent court cases include:
- A Southend man jailed for over two years after stealing £3,000 of goods.
- A Basildon woman charged with 21 thefts worth £2,500.
- An Enfield man charged with 33 thefts in Brentwood.
 Grays: Engagement officers visit army cadets
On Tuesday 30 September, our Community Engagement Officers had the pleasure of visiting the Grays T.A Centre, where we met with an enthusiastic group of Army Cadets.
The session focused on Policing in Thurrock, offering cadets a unique insight into the day-to-day realities of frontline policing. Officers delivered a Q&A-style presentation, showcased the equipment used in operational duties, and answered a wide range of brilliant questions from the cadets.
From body-worn cameras to handcuffs, radios to protective vests — cadets got hands-on with the tools that help keep our communities safe.
We were incredibly impressed by the cadets’ curiosity, respect, and engagement. Their questions sparked meaningful conversations and showed a genuine interest in public service.
Some of the thought-provoking questions asked included:
"What’s the most challenging part of being a police officer?"
"How do you decide when to use certain equipment like tasers or body-worn cameras?"
"How do you manage stressful situations while staying calm and professional?"
"What advice would you give to someone considering a career in policing?"
We’re proud to work alongside young people who are passionate about making a difference. Thank you to the Army Cadets and staff for the warm welcome and engaging discussion!
If you’d like our Community Engagement Team to visit your school, group or organisation, get in touch — we’d love to hear from you.
Message from Chief Constable following Greater Manchester attack
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington has shared a message of support following the horrific attack outside a synagogue in Greater Manchester. Essex Police sends its thoughts and sympathies to all affected, especially the Jewish community in Essex during Yom Kippur.
While there is no intelligence to suggest any threat in Essex, additional patrols and resources will be visible around synagogues and key areas to reassure communities.
We’re working closely with partners to keep everyone safe. Please report anything suspicious to us straight away.
 South Ockendon: Engagement officers visit Cubs
On Tuesday 7 October, Community Safety & Engagement Officer PC Perez had the pleasure of visiting the brilliant Belhus Park Cubs in Ockendon.
He spoke about what it’s like policing in Thurrock, shared some funny and exciting tales from his 16 years of service, and gave the Cubs a hands-on look at the kit officers carry every day.
From radios to restraints, the Cubs got to see it all — some even helped demonstrate how limb restraints work (don’t worry, everyone survived… injury free).
The questions from the Cubs were top-tier, both funny and mature! Some of our favourites:
“Have you ever chased someone through a car wash?”
“Do you get to keep the handcuffs at home?”
“What’s the weirdest thing someone’s called 999 for?” (No comment.)
“How do you stay calm in dangerous situations?”
“What was your toughest day as a police officer?”
Thank you Belhus Park Cubs, we were blown away your curiosity, confidence, and kindness.
Got a group who’d love to meet a local officer, hear some stories, and learn more about policing? We’d love to visit! Drop us a message and let’s make it happen.
 Essex Search and Rescue join officers for two-day training exercise
Essex Police and Essex Search and Rescue (EssexSAR) held a two-day joint training exercise at Hanningfield Reservoir to improve how they respond to high-risk missing person cases.
EssexSAR is a volunteer-led charity with specialist teams including dogs, drones, water, and mountain bikes. They’re available 24/7 and have already spent over 1,100 hours on 60 searches this year.
The training tested decision-making, teamwork, and new equipment like an all-terrain stretcher trolley. It also helped both teams learn how to work together more effectively in real emergencies.
You can support EssexSAR by donating or volunteering.
This month is national Tyre Safety month and we’re urging the public to “Check your tyres”.
The awareness raising month is organised by TyreSafe, who are encouraging drivers to check the air pressure, condition and tread depth on their tyres at least once a month and prior to long journeys.
Regular tyre safety checks can reduce the risk of an incident on our roads so it’s important that drivers regularly take a few minutes to check their tyres to ensure their and their passengers’ safety.
 ** APPEAL **
We want to speak to a woman in connection with several reported thefts at a beauty store in Lakeside Shopping Centre.
The most recent theft reported took place at about 2.45pm on 16 August, where a woman took £420 of perfume from H Beauty without attempting to pay.
We are now releasing an image of a woman we want to speak to in connection with the thefts.
If you have any information please contact us quoting investigation number 42/118109/25.
You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week.
Use the 'Report' button below to find out more about our online reporting services.
Alternatively you can call 101.
If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.
Join the Stop & Search Scrutiny Panel – Make Your Voice Count
Thurrock Police Need YOU!
Are you passionate about fairness, transparency, and community safety? Do you want to help shape how policing is delivered in Thurrock?
Then we need YOU to join our Stop & Search Scrutiny Panel, part of the Thurrock Independent Advisory Group (IAG).
We’re calling on local community members to step forward and be part of the panel. The panel meets every 3-months in person and members of the public review officers' recent body worn video (BWV) recordings of stop and search encounters from across Thurrock.
As a panel member, you’ll provide feedback that helps ensure police powers are used responsibly and respectfully.
What’s In It For You?
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Make a real impact on how your community is policed
- Champion fairness and accountability
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Learn more about police procedures and decision-making
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Develop valuable skills in observation and constructive feedback
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Be part of a diverse, inclusive team working to improve trust and safety
No experience needed – just your voice, your perspective, and a commitment to make a positive impact.
Ready to step up?
Express an interest or find out more, please contact: ThurrockNPT@essex.police.uk
 Let's talk
Upcoming community police events
Thursday 9 October 10:30am to 11:30am
Council Cafe, Civic Offices, High Street, Grays
Friday 10 October 10am to 11am
Oasis Cafe, Orsett Church Centre, High Road
Friday 24 October 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Pyramid Centre, Heath Road, Chadwell St Mary
Friday 24 October 3:30pm to 4:30pm
Bulphan Village Hall, Church Road
Wednesday 29 October 12:30pm to 1:30pm
The Beacon Centre, Drake Road, Chafford Hundred
Wednesday 29 October 2pm to 3pm
South Ockendon Library, Derry Avenue
Friday 31 October 12pm to 1pm
IKEA, Heron Way, Lakeside
 Crime prevention advice
You might still be over the limit the morning after a night out
Coffee, a cold shower, and a good breakfast might make you feel better but they don’t speed up how your body processes alcohol. Your reaction times and judgement could still be affected. The only cure is time. Alcohol leaves your system gradually, there’s no shortcuts.
Plan ahead:
- Arrange a lift
- Book a taxi
- Use public transport
Be fraud smart
Could the link in that message be fake?
Criminals will use ‘phishing’ links in messages to try and trick you into parting with your personal or financial information.
Be cautious of any unexpected texts and if it looks suspicious, forward the text to 7726 which will report it to your phone provider.
 Visit the Essex Police website for last week's crime data. Especially useful to Essex Watch and Neighbourhood Watch groups.
 My MOT has expired can I drive my car to the garage for the MOT test?
If your vehicle doesn't have a current MOT certificate, you can only drive it to or from a pre-arranged MOT appointment or to or from a pre-arranged repair appointment to have defects remedied that were discovered on a previous test. You can also drive your vehicle on a road without road tax in these circumstances too but your vehicle must be insured. However, not having an MOT may have implications for the validity of your insurance - you would need to check this with your insurer.
The only way you could lawfully move a vehicle without an MOT, other than in the circumstances described above, is on a trailer or recovery vehicle so that all four wheels are off the ground.
Note that:
- If a vehicle has failed an MOT you can't drive it away from the garage if any of the defects were classed as being dangerous. Dangerous defects mean a direct and immediate risk to road safety or have a serious impact on the environment - do not drive the vehicle until they've been repaired.
- You will commit an offence if you park a vehicle without an MOT on the road.
- The law makes no mention as to how far you can go for an MOT but we would suggest the distance is kept as short as possible because even though you are exempt from having a valid MOT certificate in the circumstances described above, if you are stopped by the police you could still be prosecuted for any defective parts on your vehicle e.g. exhaust, brakes and tyres etc. If you call in at shops etc. on your way to the MOT, it may be held that you are using the vehicle for other purposes and the above exemption won't apply. The further you travel the more likelihood there is of your vehicle triggering an ANPR camera and you being stopped.
- You can get an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and keep the same renewal date.
- You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT.
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