Police said they are “satisfied” that reports of an abduction of a teenage boy were false after an appeal was launched for information.

Havering Police had asked for witnesses about a suspected abduction but say, since speaking to the people who reported it, they believe that it did not happen.

It was thought a 16 or 17 year old boy was dragged into a white van in Hylands Way, near the alleyway to Elms Close, Hornchurch, at around 3pm on Wednesday.

A police spokesman said: “Officers have spoken to the people who reported the alleged abduction and are satisfied that there is no evidence of any abduction taking place.

“We thank the media for their assistance.”