Police bosses say officers are increasing patrols and working with schools after several reports of a 'child napping' pair roaming the streets.

Numerous parents reported a couple were engaging with children and trying to steal them across south Essex - but Essex Police insists there's no danger or risk to families.

Superintendent Bonnie Moore said: “Following ongoing concerns regarding reports circulating online about people acting suspiciously around young people in south Essex, we want to reassure you that we are aware of the reports and are urging parents to remain vigilant and report any concerns to us.

“We know reports like these will be concerning for parents and families and we continue to have officers patrolling across south Essex, including the areas the reports involve, providing a visible presence.

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“We are ensuring officers are focussing on areas where the reports have emanated from and our Children and Young People officers are liaising with schools. We are also liaising with our local authority partners.

“We have reviewed the information available to us including reports made to us and information on social media and, at this time, have not been able to identify a link between the locations, descriptions of people or actions being reported.

“Based on the intelligence we have, we do not believe there is a risk to the general public. Any threat assessment is dynamic and will be continuously reviewed on receipt of new information.

“So it’s really important that if you do have any information about an incident you report it to us as soon as you are able to. You can call us on 101 or report online or via the live chat function on our website: www.essex.police.uk. If it’s an emergency please call us on 999.”