Six dead in 'drug-related incidents' across south Essex

The woman, in her 30s, was pronounced dead at the scene (Picture: Getty Images)

Six people have died across south Essex in three days in what police believe may have been "drug-related" incidents.

Two women and three men died on Monday and Tuesday and Essex Police say the deaths could be linked to the sale of Class A drugs.

A police spokesman has now confirmed the force is investigating a sixth drug-related death.

A woman in her 30s was found dead in Southend on Sunday morning, police said.

Tests are ongoing to identify exactly what substance or substances are involved.

Chief Superintendent Kevin Baldwin said: “We are concerned by these deaths and have dedicated officers working around the clock to investigate the circumstances.

“At this stage we believe these incidents are contained to the south of the county but part of our enquiries is to see whether other parts of Essex are affected.

“We believe the deaths are linked to the taking of Class A drugs and are carrying out tests to establish exactly what the substance or substances involved are.

“Until we have the results of those tests we’re not going to speculate about what’s involved or how it was taken.

“Our message is clear though – if you are considering taking Class A drugs, please don’t.”

The fifth person to be found dead was a woman in her 40s in Canvey Island.

On Monday a man in his 20s was found dead at an address in Leigh-on-Sea and a woman in her 30s died in Westcliff. The following day a man in his 40s died at an address in Canvey Island and a man in his 20s was found dead in Benfleet.