A police cordon has been put in place near a Tesco supermarket as sniffer dog teams were called in to help an investigation.

Officers are standing guard and police tape has been in place for most of the morning near to shops in Rainham town centre.

An area near the precinct car park has been taped off

Several police cars and about five officers are at the scene near the Longley Road taxi rank not far from the store.

Sniffer dogs were at the scene near the precinct car park along a path connecting it with the shopping area.

It is understood they were searching the scene and focussing attention on several bin bags and are expected to be at the scene well into the afternoon.

Unconfirmed reports suggest an assault has taken place but further details have not yet been released by police.

Witnesses reported seeing forensics teams combing the area and taking items away in bags.

Police have been contacted for more information.