MYSTERY surrounds a large police presence in the Arkwrights area of Harlow on Thursday morning .

A number of uniformed units plus plain clothes officers in stab vests conducted mobile and foot searches of the area. They searched streets, allotments, garage areas and knocked on a number of doors.

When local residents enquired, the police told them they were looking for a male and advised that if he was sighted they should contact 999.

We understand they then moved on to the Netteswell Pond area off Second Avenue

YH contacted Essex Police but they could find no trace of officers in the area. We also gave them the alleged name of the person they were looking for but again, no trace.

If we do manage to find out, we will let you know.