A group of men have been spotted with a firearm near a children's play area in Basildon, sparking a police probe.

Officers were called to Hermitage Drive in Laindon at around 9:30pm last night following reports of a group of men spotted with a firearm.

Essex Police report that witnesses described "what looked like a group of men discharging a firearm".

Incident - Group with firearm seen in BasildonIncident - Group with firearm seen in Basildon (Image: Newsquest)

No one was injured and neither weapons nor bullets have been recovered at this stage.

Officers have embarked on an investigation to identify the individuals involved. A police cordon and presence are still in place at the scene.

Insp Steve Parry said "Our officers, including armed response officers were able to respond quickly in order to prevent harm coming to the victim and the wider public.

"I appreciate that this is a really concerning incident but it remains a priority today to continue enquiries and officers including police search advisors will remain in the area today.”

Witnesses also reported seeing armed police on the scene last night. 

Det Insp Marcus Dodd added: “Our detectives are working quickly to establish what happened in Laindon last night.

"Enquiries are in the early stages and I’d like to thank those in the area for their cooperation so far.”