Three men stole thousands of pounds from an estate agents in Grays.

The men entered Griffin in Orsett Road at about 12.55pm yesterday and claimed to be interested in some properties.

One of the men spoke to a member of staff, while the other two approached another staff member. 

While they distracted her, a four figure sum of cash was taken from a desk drawer.
She attempted to stop them leaving the premises and was knocked over.

One of the suspects also tried to steal a mobile phone from desk, but was challenged by another staff member, who grabbed it back.

No-one was seriously injured.


The men are described as being aged in their 30s, had dark hair and one wore a brown leather jacket.

Police are appealing for witnesses who saw what happened or saw three men acting suspiciously in the area before the incident.

The business told the Gazette it could not comment but posted a statement on its Facebook page. 

It said: "As some of you will be already aware, yesterday, Friday February 8, Griffin contacted the police as three gentleman entered the office and committed an offence which is being dealt with by Essex Police.

"May we reiterate that no weapons were used. No one was seriously hurt ... apart form our pride.

"No Keys were stolen. 

"Please ignore any rumor you may have seen on social media. This does not help the situation for anyone, especially our staff who were all brilliant yesterday."

Anyone with information is asked to call the Grays local policing team on 101, quoting reference 42/21007/19.

You can also report online at www.essex.police.uk/do-it-online
Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org