ARMED police swarmed a town centre property after reports a gunman was inside.

Five police cars swooped on the property in Southchurch Avenue, Southend, at about 5.45pm.

They were reacting to reports a man inside the property had a gun. (More below)

Police said it was not linked to the ongoing search for Mark Box, 29, of Southend, wanted in connection with the theft of guns worth £100,000.

Police were still searching the property at 7pm this evening.

A police spokesperson said: “Police were called following reports of a man in a property in Southchurch Avenue, Southend, that a man was inside with a firearm.

“Officers arrived spoke with the individuals inside and are carrying out a search of the property.”