AN alleged shooting which left two teenagers hospitalised is thought to be linked to drug dealing, Essex Police has confirmed.
Chief Superintendent Rob Kirby spoke at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon (September 1), following an incident in Market Place, Braintree, on Monday evening.
He told reporters: “Last night, officers responded quickly to reports of a gun being fired in Braintree town centre.”
Two teenage boys are currently receiving treatment for injuries to their faces and upper bodies.
He added: “Thankfully, they’re much less serious than they could have been and are not life-threatening."
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Police have suggested the attack was carried out by two groups of people who are known to each other.
Mr Kirby said: “At this stage, we do not believe this to be a random attack but instead carried out by one specific group towards another specific group.
“We are making good progress with this fast-paced investigation, and our current working theory is that this incident is linked to the sale of drugs.”
As it was a targeted attack, police do not think there is a threat to the wider public.
“I know people will be concerned, but incidents like this are incredibly rare in Essex," Mr Kirby added.
“We will not tolerate this, and I want to reassure you that we have a team of specialist detectives working to bring those responsible into custody.”
Four young men or teenage boys were seen leaving the area in the direction of the town’s railway station.
Enquiries to locate and arrest them are ongoing.
“This will include studying hours of CCTV as well as obtaining statements from witnesses," Mr Kirby said.
Three police cordons around the town centre were all stood down by 2pm.
Mr Kirby thanked the community and local businesses for their support and understanding while the forensic part of the investigation is ongoing.
He added: “We are particularly interested to hear from anyone who was in the town centre at the time of the incident but hasn’t yet spoken to an officer.
“We do not underestimate the impact an incident like this can have and we will continue to be visible.
"So, if you have any information or concerns, please speak to one of our officers.”
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