THREE men stole cable after lifting a manhole cover at midnight.

They were spotted nabbing the material in Fort Road, Tilbury, just before 12.20am on Sunday.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward, including any motorists who may have recorded the incident on their dash-cams, or residents on doorbell cameras.

Detective Inspector Leanne Ford said: “Cable thefts can have a big impact on the community as it means you might not have access to things like the internet if they’re damaged or taken.

“This took place early in the morning but if you live near the area please check any CCTV or doorbell cameras you may have.

“We’re particularly interested in identifying and locating a dark-coloured Ford Transit van seen in the area at the time.”

The men are described as all wearing baseball caps, with one wearing a hoodie and gloves.

Officers attended the scene but could not locate anyone and have since established an amount of copper cable has been taken.

If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, contact police and quote the crime reference number 42/111103/24.

You can also submit a report on the Essex Police website or by using the online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. 

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our online reporting services. Alternatively call 101.

If you would like to make an anonymous report contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.