At a Glance
- Armed robbery at a jewellery shop in Western Road on Monday, 16 February 2026.
- Offenders used weapons including a machete and axes before fleeing.
- Council supporting Essex Police and increasing high-visibility patrols.
- Public urged to contact police with any information.
Southend-on-Sea City Council supports Essex Police following an armed robbery in Southend city centre
Southend-on-Sea City Council is supporting Essex Police following an armed robbery at a jewellery shop in Western Road, just off the High Street, that took place on Monday, 16 February 2026. The incident involved offenders using weapons, including a machete and axes, before fleeing the scene.
Southend City Council is supporting police with the current investigation. The Council’s Community Safety Officers have stepped up high-visibility patrols in the town centre to reassure local businesses and visitors.
Cllr Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, said:
“This was a very serious incident, and I want to thank both Essex Police and our council teams for their swift response. Southend remains a safe city, and incidents like this are thankfully extremely rare. We will keep working closely with Essex Police and our local partners to ensure our city centre stays a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
The council encourages anyone with information to contact Essex Police on 101, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.