Police have arrested three men after being called to reports of a robbery in progress in Billericay. 

Officers working as part of the road policing unit received a 999-call reporting a residential burglary in progress in Billericay on Tuesday September 17.

The victim reported the involvement of a silver car and after the registration was circulated to patrolling officers, and with dog unit assistance, three men were stopped in a car in the Chigwell area.

They were arrested on suspicion of burglary 45 minutes after the initial call and currently remain in custody. 

Earlier the same day, officers responded to reports of a van theft in Nazeing, which was spotted on the move and found 45 minutes later unattended in Ingatestone. 

A 66 year old man nearby was arrested on suspicion of theft of vehicle and has been released on bail until mid-October while police enquiries continue. 

Mr Adam Pipe, head of roads policing, said: “Each day roads policing unit officers routinely patrol the county’s roads to prevent and detect crime, with burglary and vehicle theft being priorities.

“It’s a fantastic response meaning four people were arrested within a short space of time after both incidents, thanks to officer’s keen observation or the localities and dedication to keeping our communities safe, and assisting and safeguarding victims of crime.”