Two men have been arrested on suspicion of threats to kill after a clamping dispute escalated and a man barricaded himself inside a van.

Police were initially called to Whalebone Lane South today at about 10.20am to reports of criminal damage.

A police spokesperson said that three negotiators were attempting to persuade an armed man, who had had a dispute with a bailiff, to leave the vehicle.

The incident closed part of Whalebone Lane South near McDonald’s, and an ambulance was called to the scene and put on stand-by

Barking and Dagenham police described the situation as “volatile” and warned the public not to approach the area.

Two men have since been taken into custody.

One man, aged 52, was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill and obstruction of a police officer in the execution of their duty, whilst a 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill and criminal damage.