A high speed police chase was launched after a gun was reportedly pointed from a moving car.

The huge police operation took place across Southend yesterday after the incident and police were called to Southchurch Avenue in Southend, at around 4.30pm.

A high speed police chase raced through the town, with residents of Leigh reporting they saw two marked and one unmarked car pursuing the suspects.

A police helicopter was also out above the town and was spotted hovering over the Eastwood area. Officers managed to track down the car and three men were arrested.

Two men in their 20s were arrested on suspicion of a number of offences, including suspicion of possession of a firearm, possession of a knife, theft of a motor vehicle, failing to stop when directed and possession with intent to supply.

A man in his 20s was also arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and theft of a motor vehicle.

Police have confirmed that they remain in custody.