POLICE have arrested a man in Tilbury they believe may be connected to a dog stealing racket.

The arrest happened last night (Tuesday, 15 February) when a resident in the town raised an alarm and a road policing unit tracked the suspect down and challenged him.

Officers involved later took to social media to say: "Suspect arrested on suspicion of attempted burglary."

The arrest is being linked to 'Operation Animal' which is an Essex Police initiative involving its road crime team, the operational support group and dig handlers.

A statement says: "We've launched a new operation to tackle dog thefts, reunite stolen dogs with their owners, and make it harder for thieves to steal them. It is part of our response to intelligence concerning illegal breeding and organised dog thefts and is being led by our rural engagement team."