Seven men are being held in custody after attempts to try and steal from a cash machine failed.

Police were called out at 12.45am this morning to reports of suspicious activity in Commercial Road in Paddock Wood.

The call came through after people were said to have arrived in a silver vehicle.

Officers were called to the scene and searched the local area, finding a vehicle abandoned in a field near Queen Street.

A police dog assisted a search of the area, which led to two men being found and arrested.

Another vehicle was stopped by patrols, leading to a further five people being arrested.

No money was reported stolen from the cash machine.

An investigation by the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate is ongoing.

The suspects all remain in custody.

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/93601/19. Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111.

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