A MAN who was supposedly threatened at gunpoint during a bank heist, has now been arrested in connection with the raid.

The engineer, a 47-year-old, from Shenfield, was at Barclays Bank in Epping High Street carrying out work with a security guard from Pitsea when the raid happened.

Initially, detectives believed the pair had been jumped by two armed raiders, who were wearing scarves over their faces and brandishing hand guns. Following the attack, police said the men had been forced to hand over thousands of pounds in cash.

One of the robbers was said to have worn a camouflage jacket with the hood up, while his accomplice was believed to have worn a ski jacket, also with the hood up.

But now, detectives have arrested the security guard – a 33-year-old man from Pitsea, in Basildon – and the engineer on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery.

The pair have since been released on police bail until March 12.

The incident happened at about 6.30pm on Sunday and police are still appealing for witnesses.

Ds Steve Ellis said: “Anyone who witnessed any of the incident, or has any information on where the robbers went when they left the bank, is asked to call detectives at Loughton CID on 0300 3334444.

“Alternatively, they can give information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”