Five people remain in police custody after a 17-year-old boy was stabbed in Ipswich yesterday evening.

Ipswich Star: Police were back at Marlow Road on Tuesday morning. Picture: PAUL GEATERPolice were back at Marlow Road on Tuesday morning. Picture: PAUL GEATER (Image: Archant)

Police were called to the scene, in Marlow Road, at around 6.30pm on Monday, March 11, to reports that a teenager had been stabbed.

He was found in an alleyway between Bramford Lane and Broadway Lane after calling emergency services himself.

Police and ambulance staff were on the scene in minutes, rushing the victim to hospital for treatment.

A police cordon remained in place this morning as officers continue to investigate what happened.

Between 7.15pm and 7.20pm, five people - two boys aged 16 and 17, two 18-year-old men and a 20-year-old man - were arrested in connection to the stabbing.

The attack took place close to Westbourne Academy in Ipswich, although those alleged to be involved are not believed to be linked to the school.

Garry Trott, principal of Westbourne Academy, said officers had conducted searches on school grounds this morning.

He said: “Our community is saddened and shocked by the incident last night.

“Our thoughts are with the unfortunate victim and their family.

“Whilst this worrying event is not linked with the academy, we have been pleased with police’s quick response and we have been fully cooperative with their ongoing investigations.

“Our priority is the safety and well being of the students and staff in our community, today and every day.”

Revd. Norman Tharby, from Whitehouse Baptist Church, said the news of the stabbing had been a topic of discussion at a service this morning.

He said: “Talking to people in church, they were shocked and saddened that this has happened so close. We were pleased to hear he wasn’t killed and can recover.

“We are praying for his quick recovery and for justice to be done.”

Ipswich resident Julie Pottle said: “This is too close to home, I wish it would all stop.

“I hope the young guy makes a speedy recovery.”

Glen Chisholm, councillor for the Whitehouse ward, where the incident took place, said: “People are obviously concerned in the area that it happened so close to home and so close to the school and park.

“We were really impressed with the speed police got there and dealt with it.”

Any witnesses, or anyone with information about this incident, is asked to contact South CID at on 101 quoting reference 13979/19. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.