A BOY has been arrested following reports of multiple knifepoint robberies in two towns.

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of five counts of robbery in Billericay and Wickford and remains in custody.

An investigation was launched on Thursday, June 1 following reports of four knifepoint robberies within a five-hour period, where the suspects had stolen items including phones and scooters.

On Sunday, June 4 the police was alerted to a robbery inside a chicken shop in Wickford High Street.

The victim was inside the shop when they were approached by four boys and had his phone stolen.

Due to similarities in the suspect descriptions, the incidents were treated as linked and yesterday, investigating officers made an arrest.

Investigating officers are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have any information.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“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 www.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 @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

“Please quote incident 42/MR/17118/23 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”