SPECIALIST detectives investigating the death of a man who was stabbed have launched a fresh appeal after making arrests.

Officers arrested a Basildon man, 18, in Pitsea on Saturday.

He has been released on bail after being arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

A 57-year-old man, from Basildon, has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

And an 18-year-old male, from Harlow, is in custody for questioning after officers made an arrest this afternoon.

It comes as Essex Police is investigating the circumstances surrounding a serious assault in Joyners Field, which took place at around 11pm on Monday August 21.

The victim, a man aged in his 30s, sustained a single stab wound and was sadly later pronounced deceased.

Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe, of our Serious Crime Directorate, added: “Over the past five days, our investigation has moved at pace as we continue to build up a picture of the circumstances surrounding the death of the victim."

Patrols continue in the area as officers continue to engage with residents and keep the community safe.

Anyone with any information cans submit a report on the force’s website or by using its online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101.

Alternatively, call 101.

Please quote reference number 42/149601/23.

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.