Armed police officers arrested three teenage boys after reports of a group seen with a knife in Parsloes Park, Dagenham, on Tuesday afternoon.

Officers were called to the park at around 2:20pm on 25 March after a concerned member of the public reported seeing individuals allegedly carrying a weapon.

In response, armed units were deployed to the scene, where they arrested three teenage boys: a 16-year-old from Dagenham, and two 15-year-olds from Romford and Plaistow, on suspicion of a public order offence.

After a thorough search and further enquiries, no weapons were recovered and no injuries were reported. The boys were later released without further action, police confirmed.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said:

“Around 14:20hrs on Tuesday, 25 March, armed officers attended Parsloes Park, Dagenham, following reports of a group with a knife.

Three boys – a 16-year-old from Dagenham, a 15-year-old from Romford and a 15-year-old from Plaistow – were arrested at the scene on suspicion of a public order offence.

Following further enquiries, they were released without further action. No weapons were recovered, and no injuries were reported.”

The incident has sparked concern among some local residents, although police have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat.

Anyone with further information about the incident is encouraged to contact the police via 101, or reach out anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.