A SUSPECT attempted to fire a taser at a police officer after two thugs armed with a knife tried to force their way into a pub in Rayleigh.

The incident happened after police were called to a disturbance outside the pub, in High Street, shortly after 6pm on Saturday.

Officers were called to reports that two men were trying to force their way into the establishment, which has not been named by police.

A spokesman for the Essex force said: “Two men were attempting to force entry into the pub.

“They were unsuccessful in their attempts and left the area.

“One of the men was reported to have a knife.

“Officers quickly arrived at the scene and challenged five men who were at the location a short time after.

“The men ran off in the direction of Bull Lane, with one of the men attempting to discharge a taser at officers.

“With assistance from the National Police Air Service, a man believed to be connected with the incident was arrested.

“If you saw anything or any other information about the disturbance, please call us.”

Following the incident, police evoked Section 60 Authority powers, which allows uniformed officers to search people for dangerous objects and weapons without the need to have a reasonable suspicion.

The powers were put in place in Rayleigh until 10pm on Saturday.

The spokesman added: “The powers were exercised to protect the community and prevent incidents of crime and disorder.

“A Section 60 power differs from the regular stop and search powers as officers do not need to have reasonable grounds to stop and search someone.

“Due to this we have an obligation to make the public aware that a Section 60 Authority has been authorised and covered Highfield Crescent in Rayleigh and the surrounding area, including the A1015 to South Victoria Road, the B1013 and Trinity Road.”

Witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage, or any other information about the disturbance, is asked to called Essex Police on 101 quoting incident 1471 of February 22.

Alternatively, witnesses can call independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 20-year-old man, from Leigh, was arrested on suspicion of being in possession of an offensive weapon and yesterday remained in police custody.