Four thugs wearing balaclavas forced themselves into a Basildon property during an aggravated burglary, before threatening a resident.

The four men had forced their way into an address in Aster Close at around 10.25pm on Tuesday (June 29).

One person inside was pushed to the floor and threatened, while damage was caused to the inside of the address.

The men have been described to the police as black and wearing balaclavas.

At this stage officers believe this was a targeted incident.

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Essex Police are now appealing for help, urging anyone with information to come forward.

A spokesman from the force, said: "We need to speak to anyone who saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam or doorbell footage.

"If you have any information you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

"Please quote the crime reference number 42/125845/21.

"You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."