NI Man Arrested As 39 Bodies Found In Essex

Essex police have arrested a man from Northern Ireland following the discovery of a lorry container with 39 dead bodies inside.

It's believed the lorry had travelled from Bulgaria, with the 25-year-old driver under arrest on suspicion of murder.

Emergency services were called to the scene where the container was discovered at Waterglade Industrial Park, Eastern Avenue, Grays shortly before 1.40am this morning, 23 October.

Early indications suggest there were 38 adults and one teenager inside, all of whom were pronounced dead at the scene.

Chief Superintendent Andrew Mariner said: "This is a tragic incident where a large number of people have lost their lives. Our enquiries are ongoing to establish what has happened.

"We are in the process of identifying the victims, however I anticipate that this could be a lengthy process.

"We believe the lorry is from Bulgaria and entered the country at Holyhead on Saturday 19 October and we are working closely with our partners to investigate.

"We have arrested the lorry driver in connection with the incident who remains in police custody as our enquiries continue."

Essex police are working with the local council to minimise disruption to local businesses while a cordon is in place at the Industrial Park.



(JG/CM)