Arrests after sacks of clothes found in warehouse

Three people have been arrested after bags of clothes believed to have been stolen from charity donation bins were found in a warehouse.

Essex Police said it carried out a search at an industrial unit in Purfleet and found a large number of sacks containing the clothes, as well as shoes, toys and prams.

"We believe that some of the sacks were destined to be sold abroad," it said.

The force also found £38,000 in cash, washing machines, industrial scales, conveyor belts, cages and a forklift.

Officers, from the Harlow Local Policing Team said it was investigating a "large-scale theft of clothes" that had been donated in January.

PC Jacob George said: "This type of theft is complex.

"Our communities expect that when they make a donation, it reaches the people it was intended for, that it will be used for good and will be given to some of the most deserving people in society."

At the industrial unit on London Road, Purfleet, the force found a marquee within the building and sacks containing clothes which were "stacked to the ceiling and were four or more deep in places".

A 48-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of money laundering, and two men, aged 38 and 31, were arrested on suspicion of going equipped to steal.

They have been released on bail until 28 June.

"We believe that some of the sacks were destined to be sold abroad," PC George added.

The force said it encouraged people to continue to donate clothes and items to charities, but to always report anything suspicious.

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