A fourth person has been arrested in connection with the kidnap of a three-year-old child in Essex.

An 18-year-old man from Hornchurch was arrested following a police raid on a home in the town.

He was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, possession with intent to supply and firearms offences, and is currently in custody.

Two other men have already appeared in court in connection with the case.

Robert Gurling, 45, of Linden Street, Romford, has been remanded in custody until July 9 to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court while Laurence Payne, 40, of Dereham Place, Romford has been remanded in custody to appear at the court on May 27.

A 43–year-old woman from Guildford, Surrey arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in connection with the investigation has been bailed pending further enquiries until Tuesday June 30.