Essex police's armed officers flooded a residential street in Shoebury last night after reports that a man was seen with a handgun.

Specialist Firearms Officers from the Firearms Support Unit and Police Dog units responded to the incident which took place around Cunningham Close in Shoebury.

The police helicopter was spotted searching the area and spent around an hour circling, relaying information on the suspects whereabouts to ground units.

Echo:

It is understood that a male has now been arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and at least two others were arrested at a property on suspicion of cannabis cultivation offences.

While there were reports of an armed robbery in the high street, police have yet to confirm this.

The force has been contacted for comment.