Armed Police Arrest Two in Kidnapping Probe Near Essex Primary School
Two people have been arrested in connection with an alleged kidnapping incident that unfolded near a primary school in Benfleet, Essex. The arrests were made by armed police officers on High Road, sparking concern among local residents and school staff.
Details of the Arrests
A 39-year-old woman and a 47-year-old man were taken into custody on February 12th following reports of a man in his 20s being kidnapped. The incident occurred at approximately 12:45pm, close to South Benfleet Primary School, where eyewitnesses described a dramatic scene involving armed officers emerging from an unmarked vehicle.
One witness recounted: "I'd pulled up outside the shops next to Benfleet school, as I got out there was a guy with a bag who wasn't being allowed into the corner shop, he was behaving quite strangely." The witness added that four or five armed police officers ran from the car, handcuffed the man, and shouted questions about the location of another individual.
Police Investigation and Community Response
Essex Police have confirmed they are actively engaging with the alleged victim to understand the circumstances surrounding the event. A spokesperson stated: "Two people have been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged kidnap of a man aged in his 20s. We continue to engage with the victim as we build a picture of the circumstances around the incident."
The arrests caused significant alarm, with a teacher from the primary school reportedly rushing out to inquire about the situation. The witness noted: "A teacher came running out of the school because obviously it was causing a lot of alarm waving her ID asking what was happening." Police were heard informing the arrested man that he was being detained on suspicion of kidnap, describing the scene as "very intense."
Current Status of the Case
Both individuals arrested have since been released on conditional bail as the investigation continues. Essex Police are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in piecing together the events that led to the alleged kidnapping.
The proximity of the incident to a primary school has raised concerns about community safety, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to resolving the case promptly. Further updates are expected as police delve deeper into the allegations and gather additional evidence from the area.
