A man from Canvey has been arrested after police found boxloads of stolen Covid tests.

The discovery was made by officers in Harlow on Tuesday. 

The lateral flow tests, which provide results in around 30 minutes, were destined for secondary schools across the country. 

Officers say the suspected stolen tests had been grabbed from the back of a lorry parked in a businsess park. 

A 31-year-old man from Canvey was one of three men arrested on suspicion of theft.

Another man arrested, who was from Dagenham, was also arrested on suspicion of drug driving.

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Chief Supt Stuart Hooper said: “Our colleagues in the NHS, and dedicated volunteers across the country, are working tirelessly to stop the spread of coronavirus and save lives.

“I’m thrilled that we were able to recover the lateral flow tests so that those in need are able to keep themselves and others safe at this difficult time.

“I’d like to remind the people of Essex that you can go and get yourself tested at sites across the county, and we’d encourage you to do so where possible.”