Three men have been arrested by police in connection with an investigation into the production of counterfeit currency in south Essex.

Essex Police were aided by the National Crime Agency and the Royal Mint when they executed a warrant at a unit at the Southfields Business Park in Basildon.

A large amount of cash - thought to be a four figure sum - was seized during the operation along with the machinery that police believe was being used to produce counterfeit £2 coins.

A 64-year-old man from Dunmow , near Braintree was arrested on suspicion of possession of articles to make counterfeit currency.

Two men. a 71-year-old from the Chelmsford area and a 56 year-old man from Stanford-le -Hope were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to make counterfeit money.

The three arrested men are currently in custody awaiting questioning by officers.

Essex Police are continuing their enquiries into the case.