THE suspects in the ongoing murder probe in Laindon are as young as 13, the Echo has learned.

A total of five teenagers have been arrested and quizzed by police following the fatal stabbing of a man in Iris Mews.

The man in his 30s was found at 9.30pm on Sunday with stab wounds, and despite efforts by paramedics, he died at the scene.

Four teenagers were arrested on the night, with another arrested on Monday night.

Essex Police have since confirmed the five suspects consist of three boys and two girls, all of whom are aged between 13 and 16.

Two of the teenagers have since been released on bail until May 25 and May 28 respectively.

The other three remain in custody.

The police previously revealed the victim had been trying to help another man when he was attacked.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Our detectives have been working tirelessly and through the night to establish what happened in the moments leading up to the murder and the attack itself.

"There will also be a continued police presence in the area today and into the coming days and we would encourage anyone who wants to speak to our officers to do so – they are here to help."

Anyone who can help should submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the ‘Live Chat’ button to speak to an online operator.

You can also call 101 and cite incident 1292 of May 2.

Information can be given to charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.