POLICE are hunting for a woman who may have been stabbed after a fight broke out between five people in Pitsea.

Detectives believe the woman received a injury to her arm during the altercation, but have been unable to locate her.

Police were called to the scene, in Chestnut Road, shortly before 8pm on Thursday and forensics officers remained there for five hours as investigations continued.

Witnesses have told the Echo officers at the scene informed people nearby a stabbing had occurred.

Essex Police did not confirmed the stabbing, or whether a weapon was used in the altercation and questions on how exactly the woman is thought to have sustained the injury went unanswered.

An investigation is now underway and the force has launched an appeal to track down the woman.

Craig Rimmer, councillor of the Pitsea South East ward, said: “It’s a shocking and horrendous incident that’s taken place.

“Residents can be assured we have had an increase of police officers in Pitsea.

“Unfortunately we’re still seeing people in possession of knives, but I would urge anyone to use the knife bin at the Chalvedon community centre.”

Mr Rimmer also revealed a rise in antisocial behaviour in and around Pitsea since lockdown began to be eased earlier this month.

The councillor said he has had cases where residents have reported late-night parties and young drivers blaring music through their cars. One separate incident saw a delivery van being pelted with stones.

“There has been a lot of antisocial behaviour at the moment, and it needs to stop”, he added.

A spokesman for Essex Police, said: “Detectives are appealing for information following reports of an altercation in Chestnut Road, Basildon, on Thursday at around 7.55pm.

“It is reported that a group of around five people were having an argument.

“A woman was reported to have received an injury to her arm.

“If you believe this might have been you or you know this person, can you please contact us on 101 we would like to make sure she is ok.”

Call 101 citing 42/92945/20.

“If anyone have any information, CCTV or dashcam footage please call us on 101 quoting crime reference 42/92945/20, you can also report it online.”