A man in his early 20s from Northern Ireland – who is understood to be sought by Essex Police as part of the investigation into the 39 lorry trailer deaths – has been arrested in Dublin. 

Gardai said the man was held over an unrelated outstanding court order. 

PA Media reported that he was understood to be sought by Essex Police as part of their probe, and that the force had confirmed officers were in touch with Irish police.

In a statement, Gardai said: “Earlier today 26 October 2019 at Dublin Port An Garda Siochana arrested a male in his early 20s from Northern Ireland on foot of an outstanding court order for an offence in this jurisdiction.

“This male will appear before Criminal Courts of Justice, Court 2, at 4.30pm today Saturday 26th October 2019.”

The man is the fifth person arrested in connection with the probe into the deaths of 39 migrants. 

On Saturday afternoon, lorry driver Maurice Robinson was charged with 39 counts of manslaughter and conspiracy to traffic people. 

Three other people have also been on suspicion of conspiracy to traffic people and manslaughter and remain in custody.