A MAN was arrested on suspicion of burglary and drugs offences within just 20 minutes of officers being called out after a police dog leapt into action.

The Essex Police Dog Unit arrested an 18-year-old man was at about 5.50pm yesterday, just 15 minutes after being called to reports of a burglary in River View, Witham.

He is currently being held in custody and being questioned on suspicion of burglary and possession of a Class A drug.

Braintree and Witham Times: Dog: an Essex Police dog Dog: an Essex Police dog (Image: Essex Police)

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Quick acting officers responding to a burglary in Witham have made an arrest within 20 minutes of it taking place.

“We were called to reports of a burglary at an address in River View at around 5.35pm yesterday.

“An 18-year-old man from Witham is currently in custody being questioned on suspicion of burglary and possession of a Class A drug.”

An investigation is ongoing and police are now asking for any witnesses to contact them.

The spokesman added: “If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“Please quote the crime reference number 42/154398/23.

Braintree and Witham Times: Address: a burglary was reported in River View in WithamAddress: a burglary was reported in River View in Witham (Image: Google)

“You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

“Visit essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

“Alternatively, you can call us on 101. In an emergency always call 999.

“If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.”