A police helicopter helped officers corner three teenage boys hiding in a field in South Ockendon after a stolen motorbike was traced to the area.
Thurrock neighbourhood and local policing teams responded after a theft was reported, moving to surround land north of the A13 while the National Police Air Service provided aerial support overhead.
When officers closed in, the teenagers were found alongside three vehicles — a motorbike matching the reported stolen one, a moped believed to have been taken the previous day, and a Surron e-bike.
Realising they were being watched from above, the group attempted to move toward a nearby residential area and tried to conceal themselves before being cornered by officers on the ground.
The three boys, aged 16, 15, and 15, were all arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle. One of the 15-year-olds faced additional charges, being further arrested on suspicion of assaulting two emergency workers, a public order offence, and attempted criminal damage.
All three were taken to custody in Harlow. They have since been released on bail while officers continue their enquiries.
