A BOY was found carrying a kitchen knife when he was searched by police.
The Maldon town team were carrying out proactive patrols in Heybridge.
When they searched a juvenile male, they found he had a kitchen knife on him.
Police have released a photo of the knife, which has a blade of more than seven inches.
Officers are investigating why the boy felt the need to carry the potential weapon.
Police are now urging parents to ask themselves whether their children could be taking out knives or weapons.
A spokesman for Essex Police said: “The Maldon town team have been conducting proactive patrols in the Heybridge area of Maldon.
“A search of a juvenile male revealed that he had this kitchen knife on him.
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“Can you account for all of your kitchen knives within your home?
“Are you concerned that your children are taking out knives or weapons?
“Or do you have information about someone carrying a knife or a weapon?"
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police online at essex.police.uk.
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