The A130, southbound carriageway, between Howe Green and Rettendon was closed. (Credit Pic: Google Streetmaps)
Police spotted a silver Lexus, suspected of stealing fuel from a lorry on the side of the road, just before 10.50pm last night.
Officers chased the vehicle although it was later found abandoned near the A127, after releasing fuel over the road.
The A130, southbound carriageway, between Howe Green and Rettendon was closed for a short time whilst Highways cleared the spillage.
A police helicopter was also called to assist with the search.
The two men were found hiding in the undergrowth by an officer and police dog on the ground just before 11.45pm.
A 34-year-old man from Tilbury was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, theft and drug driving.
A 36-year-old man, also from Tilbury, was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, failing to stop when directed and theft.
The pair remain in custody for questioning.
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