Four men arrested after dangerous driving on A127, Essex

The HGV had been driven late last night (Friday 27 March), including on the wrong side of the road, whilst being safely pursued by roads policing officers on the A127 and A13. Items were also seen to be thrown out of the vehicle, which were later recovered and the vehicle was then driven into the Grays area where the driver ran off. He was tracked by a dog unit on the ground and by air support to Woodside Close and arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop.

The HGV was brought to a stop using a stinger in Grays. (Image: Essex Police) Whilst officers were with that man, a second vehicle arrived in the area which officers believed to be connected to the incident. It contained three other men.

When it was searched, officers found pairs of gloves and several balaclavas inside. Those three men were arrested on suspicion of going equipped and conspiracy to commit theft. The HGV was brought to a stop using a stinger in Grays and four men remain in custody.

Superintendent Ella Latham said: "This HGV was being driven really worryingly and the person behind the wheel appeared to have no regard for the safety of other people using the road last night and officers knew it had to be safely stopped. "Thankfully, the stinger was used safely, which meant the driver had to stop. He tried to run away but a search by a police dog on the ground and with air support meant he was tracked easily."

Supt Lathan added: "When the second vehicle turned up, officers followed their suspicions and made a number of discoveries there which now form part of our overall investigation."