MULTIPLE men have been arrested in connection with an ongoing police investigation into two attempted ATM thefts.

Officers from Essex Police's serious and organised crime unit are investigating incidents which took place in Witham and Laindon.

On March 22, an ATM in Witham was significantly damaged by an explosion, but no cash was stolen.

Following this, on April 11, an ATM outside Tesco, in Laindon, was targeted, where an attempt to access the machine using an explosive failed and no money was taken.

Four men have subsequently been arrested as part of the operation.

During the early hours of the morning on Friday April 29, a 29-year-old man from Colchester, a 33-year-old man from Romford and a 42-year-old man from Woodford Green were arrested on suspicion of burglary and theft.

In addition, a 36-year-old man from Ilford was later arrested on suspicion of the same offences.

The men all remain in custody for questioning.

A number of items have also been seized from addresses in Colchester, Romford and Woodford Green, which Essex Police say are forming part of their ongoing investigation.