An attack on two Polish men just hours after a march and vigil in honour of a Pole murdered in the same town was a “potential hate crime”, police said.
Four or five men outside the William Aylmer pub in Harlow attacked the pair on Sunday morning, officers said.
One victim suffered a broken nose, the other a cut to his head.
Supt Trevor Roe said the “vicious and horrible attack” in Kitson Way was not being linked to the fatal attack on Arek Jozwik in the town last weekend.
The assault happened at 03:35 BST, less than 12 hours after hundreds of people – including Poles from across the UK – gathered in the town for a silent march to remember Mr Jozwik.
Both victims, who are in their 30s, were treated at the town’s Princess Alexandra Hospital.
Supt Roe said: “Although we are considering this matter as a potential hate crime, it is not being linked with the attack (on Mr Jozwik) at The Stow last weekend.
“I want to reassure the public and the community in Harlow we are treating this very seriously and do not tolerate assaults of any kind.
“There will be an increased number of visible policing patrols in Harlow to both reassure and protect the community.
“Harlow is a strong and resilient community but I understand the concerns that recent events will cause.” (bbcnews)