Armed police have swarmed around a yacht club in Canvey Island.
About four police cars are currently near Chapman Sands Sailing Club in Eastern Esplanade and blocking the road.
Essex Police's helicopter has been spotted flying above the Leigh Beck area.
An Essex Police spokesman said: "Acting on information police stopped a car in Eastern Esplanade in Canvey at 4pm today.
"Three men were arrested on suspicion of kidnap. A fourth occupant of the vehicle has not been detained but was spoken to by police."
He confirmed that the incident was not related to the search for suspected dangerous gunman Conall Regan.
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