ANOTHER incidence of criminality has taken place in Chafford Hundred, which has been featured in a number of incidents over recent months.

An arrest has been made and a police investigation is progressing after an aggravated burglary at the Tesco at the Armada complex.

Police officers were called to the Tesco Express on Drake Road, shortly before 7pm yesterday (Wednesday, 4 September).

It was reported three suspects, wearing masks, were making threats to staff and customers while attempting to steal alcohol and cigarettes.

It was further reported one of the suspects smashed a bottle, using it to make further threats.

A statement from Essex Police says: "While we responded, two off-duty officers were near to the scene and managed to detain one of the suspects as they made off.

"No injuries were suffered.

"A 32-year-old man, from Chigwell, remains in custody for questioning on suspicion of aggravated burglary.

"Enquiries are ongoing to trace two outstanding suspects."

Detective Inspector Richard Trower, of Grays CID, said: "We know this was a disturbing and frightening incident for both the staff and customers who witnessed and suffered these threats.

"They absolutely should not have to fall victim to incidents like this, which is why we are continuing a full and forensic investigation into this incident.

"I would ask anyone who may have any information to please reach out to us and get in touch.

"Any detail, no matter how small, could help us with our enquiries.

"Anyone with information should contact us as soon as possible. Please cite incident 1011 of 4 September. 

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. 

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."