Thugs stole £11,000 of life-saving equipment after going on the rampage on Southend Pier.
Fire extinguishers, cones and life belts were snatched and thrown into the sea and £1,000 damage caused to a train's charger during the night-time spree.
They also helped themselves to a first aid kit and broke into the cash office, finding nothing.
It is a mystery as to how they sneaked onto the world's longest pier, which was being guarded by a watchman at the time.
Charles Latham, Southend Council leader, said: "Security is extremely important to the council and if as a result of this anything needs to be tightened up, we will take the necessary action."
Published Tuesday, February 25, 2003
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