Tests inconclusive on ditch body

Police have searched the area for any other people

A post-mortem examination on a man's body found in a roadside ditch has failed to discover how he died.

Two other men who were dehydrated were found nearby by a passer-by, on the A12 in Witham, Essex, early on Monday.

Essex Police said they believe the men, who are all aged in their 20s or 30s, come from Pakistan and are victims of people smuggling.

The post-mortem into the cause of the man's death has proved inconclusive and further tests will be carried out.

Still 'critical'

Essex Police are studying CCTV footage in a bid to found out who they are.

Officers are asking residents to check sheds and outbuildings to ensure there are no other people unaccounted for.

It is believed the three men were left at the spot sometime before 0730 BST on Monday.

One man remains in a critical condition in hospital and is being treated for serious dehydration.

The other man, who was also treated for dehydration and has been released from hospital, has been helping police.

An Essex Police spokeswoman said it is believed the men had come into England via mainland Europe, most likely in a vehicle through one of the shipping ports.

She said: "A thorough search of the area has been carried out to ensure there are no other individuals outstanding or in need of medical attention."

Police are appealing to anyone who came through the ports on Monday morning, or motorists using the A12 who may have seen anything suspicious, to contact officers.

They also want to hear from people who may have seen anyone of Asian appearance in the area looking lost, confused and wearing dishevelled and dirty clothing.