A suspect accused of swallowing drugs has spent more than three weeks in police custody without going to the toilet.

The man was arrested in Harlow on January 17 by Essex Police’s Operation Raptor West team, which targets gang crime in Harlow, Epping Forest, Brentwood and Thurrock.

Officers have since been tweeting daily updates of what they have described as "poo watch".

The unit said that Wednesday was day 21 "for our man on #poowatch", adding: "Still no movements/items to report.

“He will remain with us until Friday when we are back at court where we will be requesting a further eight days should he not produce anything before that hearing."

They earlier wrote: "Male doesn't seem to understand that eventually he will need/have to go."

Officers said the man was being seen daily by doctors and constantly watched, adding: "This is his own choice and so far his health is fine."

Police said the suspect was alleged to be involved with a London gang.