Essex Police executed warrants in Thurrock and Southend in connection with the theft of a number of vehicles.

Witnesses reported armed police in Lancaster Gardens and about ten police vehicles.

A 37 year-old man was arrested in Chadwell St Mary, a 26 year-old man was arrested in Tilbury, and 26 year-old man was arrested in Southend all on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle.

All three are currently in custody.