Police are hunting three people who stole hand cream from a popular chemists before one of them confronted members of the public.

The incident happened shortly after 4pm yesterday at Rainham shopping precinct.

Witnesses say the thieves took a couple of items from the Lloyds Pharmacy.

Shopper Stuart Bourne was walking out of the centre with his two children when he saw a commotion.

He said: "When we got to the lower car park there was what looked like an argument between two men.

"One got into a BMW while another filmed him leaving. Meanwhile, builders from across the street were also shouting.

"The car began to drive out of the car park but then stopped and the man got out.

"He then started swearing at the builders, threatening them and saying to mind their own business. He then got back in and drove away quickly.

"The first guy continued to film the whole thing and went back to the shop to hand the footage to staff for police to use.

"That was when he told me that the Lloyds chemist had been robbed and had a large amount of medication and pills taken."

A spokesman for Lloyd Pharmacy denied, however, that any medication was stolen. Instead, thieves took a small number of hand creams.

They said: "On March 13, three individuals came to the Lloyds Pharmacy Branch in Rainham, and stole a small number of hand creams.

"Lloyds Pharmacy can confirm that no medication or other items were taken from the branch and no one was hurt as a result.

"Separately, an altercation took place outside the branch a short while later. However, local police have confirmed that this is being treated as a separate incident as no pharmacy staff or items were involved.

"The Rainham store has remained open throughout and our pharmacy teams are continuing to provide services to the local community.

"We would like to thank our colleagues and customers at the Rainham branch for their continued support during this time."

A police spokesman said: "Officers were called at 4.05pm following a report three people had stolen items and threatened members of the public.

"An investigation into the incident is ongoing and anyone with information is urged to call 01634 792209, quoting reference 13-0954.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form on their website.