A police search in Maldon yesterday evening ended in frustration for officers as the suspect evaded arrest.

Commotion was heard around Maldon High Street at 5pm on February 21, with onlookers reporting seeing several police vehicles, including a helicopter, in the area.

Essex Police said: "We were alerted by a neighbouring police force to a vehicle which had been reported as stolen and was believed to be in the Essex area.

"Roads policing officers were able to locate the vehicle in Maldon without any occupants.

"A widespread search of the area was carried out by officers, but no suspect was located.

"Additional work then helped to identify a person of interest and that information is being progressed alongside officers in the force which is investigating the initial vehicle theft."

The suspect is believed to have escaped on foot.

We are seeking more information.