Essex: M25 Crossing Shut Due To Threat

Motorists are facing severe delays on the M25 after police were forced to close the Dartford Crossing in both directions due to a security threat.

Police have advised drivers to find alternative routes while they investigate a suspicious item found on the motorway.

Officers were called to the crossing at 4pm to a report of a male pedestrian behaving unusually, Kent Police said. He is now under arrest.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "Police were called to the Dartford Crossing at 4pm today following a report that a male pedestrian was behaving unusually.

"The male has been arrested. Officers have located a suspicious item and have closed the crossing whilst enquiries continue.

"The crossing will be closed for some time and motorists are advised to find alternative routes"

A Highways Agency spokesman said: "The Dartford River Crossing has been closed in both directions due to a serious incident.

"We are working with Kent Police and the crossing will be reopened once they have been able to resolve the issue."