Two boys have been found dead at a property in Dagenham, police have said.

The youngsters, aged just five and two, were discovered by emergency services at an address in Cornwallis Road at around 2pm today (December 16).

A man and woman, who police said were known to both children, have been arrested and are in police custody.

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Det Insp Sean Treweek said: “This is clearly an extremely distressing incident with many unanswered questions.

"At this very early stage, nobody else is sought in connection with the deaths.

“I want to thank local people for the assistance they have given officers as they begin work along with partner agencies to establish the full circumstances of these two tragic deaths.

"They will see additional officers in the area, and anyone with information or concerns should speak with those officers.”

A Met Police spokesperson said the woman was arrested after police were called to "a disturbance" at a residential address near to the scene.

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The man was also arrested near to the scene.

The boys' family have been told of their deaths and post-mortem examinations and formal identifications will happen.

Police cordons are in place at the scene and the Met is appealing for anyone with information to call 101, referencing CAD 3408/16dec.