An 18-year-old from Stratford has become the tenth teenager to plead guilty to violent offences following a large-scale brawl near Southend seafront last summer, which left one boy stabbed and a firearm brandished among holidaymakers.

Hamza Dinbil, of Corporation Street, Stratford, admitted to charges of violent disorder and possession of a bladed article in a public place after being involved in the July 30, 2024, incident.

Essex Police responded to multiple reports of youths armed with weapons amid crowds of people enjoying the hot weather. One boy was stabbed in the back and rushed to hospital, while police swiftly made several arrests of suspects aged between 14 and 18.

Among those involved, a 16-year-old from London brought a gun to the scene. He has since admitted to possession of a prohibited firearm and intent to cause fear or violence.

The teenagers have all now either pleaded guilty or been charged in connection with the disturbance and will be sentenced at Basildon Crown Court during the week of July 14, 2025.

Full List of Defendants and Charges:

• Hamza Dinbil (18) – Stratford: Violent disorder, possession of a bladed article
• Tyler Omo-Irogho (18) – Watford: Assaulting an emergency worker, violent disorder, possession of a bladed article
• Michael King (18) – South Woodford: Violent disorder, conspiracy to commit GBH
• Mekai Brown (18) – Woodford Green: Violent disorder, conspiracy to commit GBH
• Lucas Braga (18) – Stratford (17 at the time): Violent disorder, possession of a bladed article
• Isaac Bello (18) – Woodford Green (17 at the time): Violent disorder, possession of a bladed article
• 16-year-old (London): Violent disorder, conspiracy to commit GBH, possession of a prohibited firearm, possession with intent to cause fear or violence
• 17-year-old (London): Violent disorder, possession of a bladed article
• 16-year-old (Basildon): Violent disorder, possession of a bladed article
• 15-year-old (Pitsea) – (14 at the time): Violent disorder, conspiracy to commit GBH, possession of an offensive weapon

Police and Community Leaders Respond

Southend District Commander Dave Browning praised the coordinated response of officers during the incident, stating:

“We told those intent on coming here to commit crime that they would be dealt with. These ten young men now await sentencing – and they should be in no doubt that their actions have consequences.”

He reassured the public that such violence remains rare:

“One incident is too many, and we are always alert. This summer, we welcome visitors, but anyone coming to cause trouble will be met with swift action and justice.”

Pat Sampson, chair of the Southend Independent Advisory Group, added:

“Our residents must feel safe. I’m pleased these individuals have admitted guilt, and we’ll continue working with the police to protect our city.”

The incident drew widespread concern last year, with video footage showing panic as beachgoers fled the area. Police enforced a dispersal order across the seafront and pier zone to restore order and track suspects.

The case underscores growing concerns about youth violence involving weapons, particularly in public spaces. Authorities continue to encourage community reporting and cooperation to tackle such crimes.

Sentencing is expected mid-July.