Men arrested after gun seen in Canvey arcade

Police were called on Monday, March 18 to reports of three men entering an arcade, in Eastern Esplanade, Canvey, with what was described as a gun.

Three suspects were later tracked down in Brentwood and were stopped by armed officers on London Road at the junction with Kavanaghs Road.

Photos at the scene showed at least three police vehicles and officers with guns patrolling the scene.

The police helicopter was also launched to assist with the incident.

Three men were arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We were called on Monday, March 18, with reports three men were seen with what was believed to be a firearm in Canvey shortly before 12.30pm.

“It was reported that three men got out of a silver car on Eastern Esplanade and entered an arcade with what was described as a gun.

“The men returned to the vehicle a short while later and left in the direction of the town centre.

“With assistance from the National Police Air Service, the car was tracked to Brentwood and was stopped by officers on London Road.

“A search took place and no firearm was found.

“A 28 year-old man from London, A 29-year-old man from Hertfordshire and a 26 year-old man from Barking have been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm.”

The three men have since been released without charge.

The incident has caused concern about safety on the island.

One woman, who has asked to remain anonymous, said: “It’s terrifying to hear that a man with a gun has gone into a place that is supposed to be somewhere for children and families.

“My kids go there almost every weekend and to think they could have been there when this was going on makes you think twice.

“Hopefully whoever is responsible will get caught soon.”

Anyone with information about the gunman should contact Essex Police by calling 101.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555111 with information.