A SOUTH Ockendon man has been arrested as part of a cross-Channel drugs and money laundering bust.

The 26-year-old from The Green, South Ockendon, was arrested today in a joint investigation involving South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, the National Crime Agency, Essex Police and the French Judicial Police.

A 30-year-old from Rollason Way, Brentwood, was also arrested.

Both have been held on suspicion of conspiracy to import cocaine and amphetamine, and money laundering charges.

The arrests come as detectives continue to look into incidents of drugs trafficking between England and France.

DI Simon Harsley, of SEROCU, said: "The arrests today follow the arrests of three British men over the last 18 months, as a result of joint operation between French and British agencies, for allegedly attempting to import cocaine and amphetamine into the country from northern France in a microlite aircraft.

“All three are currently in custody awaiting trial in France.”

Dave White, from NCA's Border Policing Command, added: "This investigation has already led to the seizure of around 70kg of class A drugs which were destined for the UK.

“Working closely with law enforcement colleagues here and in France the NCA is determined to tackle those responsible for trafficking illegal drugs into the UK.”

Police are currently questioning the pair arrested in Essex.