ARMED officers stormed two streets after concerns were raised for the welfare of a man.

Residents were shocked to see the heavy police presence in Long Lane and Randall Drive, Stifford Clays in the early hours of Monday morning.

A man was found with minor injuries by officers after the incident.

A man and women were arrested in connection with kidnapping and possession of a firearm.

Witnesses say the police told everyone to stay inside and safe.

Images showed a number of police cars and officers flooding the streets while they carried out investigations and made the area safe for the residents.

Another resident added: "It was a real shock and we didn't want to go outside of our house."

Officers are still appealing for witnesses to come forward in connection with the incident.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "We were called with reports of concern for the welfare of a man in Grays around 12.50am on Monday 20 September.

"Officers attended an address off of Long Lane and found a man in his 20s with minor injuries. He did not require hospital treatment.

"Two people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

"A 20-year-old man of no fixed address and a 19-year-old woman from Billericay have been arrested on suspicion of kidnapping and possession of a firearm.

"They remain in custody and enquiries are ongoing.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact us on 101 quoting incident 24 of 20 September. You can also contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/."