THURROCK Police have highlighted their work in disrupting criminal activities on borough roads bu releasing details of two recent arrests, one of which involved a car chase and crash after a police vehicle was hit.

Police have codenamed their activities as 'Operation animal' and they targeted roads in the west of the borough, combining the resources of with Essex's Road Crime Team, its Operational Support Group, Traffic and Dogs and a joint venture with the Met Police Taskforce.

The aim was to target and disrupt criminals using the road networks utilising various tactics and police say: "It was an extremely successful operation, with Thurrock having particular attention to identify and prevent bike and car thefts. While we can't share all of the results, be assured plenty enjoyed a stay in our en-suite facilities and/or had their vehicles removed from the road."

Details of two incidents have been given.

In one a BMW and its driver were stopped and searched just off the A13 in Grays, where the male driver was found to be transporting a large amount of drugs, with plenty prepared ready for distribution.

And a BMW M3 driver crashed off the road into bushes during a pursuit in Aveley after ramming one of the Met Taskforce vehicles.

Police added: "Op Animal will not be a one off. Watch this space!"