TWO men have been arrested on suspicion of murder human remains were found in a pond in Harlow.
Essex Police confirmed human remains found at Oakwood Pond, Harlow, at the weekend belong to 59-year-old Phillip Lewis.
Phillip lived in Harlow for many years and was known to his friends as Scottish Phil.
Detectives have arrested a 52-year-old on suspicion of murder and a 23-year-old on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder.
The men, both local, are currently in custody.
Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, the head of major crime, said: "Phil lived in Harlow for many years and had a wide circle of friends who he socialised with.
"I want to extend my condolences to Phil's friends and family and re-iterate my commitment to them that we will work relentlessly to bring those responsible for his murder to justice.
"This has been a fast-paced investigation, and we have worked quickly to make arrests, but our work does not stop there.
"Specialist officers continue to search the area around the pond and work to drain it is ongoing.
"Dedicated specialist detectives continue working around the clock to give Phil's friends and families the answers they need about what happened to him and why."
Det Supt Kirby said: "I want to thank the community here in Harlow for their support and understanding.
"I know this investigation has caused shock and concern, but we don't believe there is an ongoing risk to the wider public.
“You will continue to see a visible police presence in the area.
“I appeal directly to the residents of Harlow for the following information.
“I would like anyone who came into contact with Phil in any way since 1st November 2022 to come forward, so we can build a picture of Phillip’s life prior to his death.
“I would like anyone who lives in the areas of Oakwood Pond or the estates coming off Harberts Road, south of Fourth Avenue, and who has CCTV or doorbell video systems to contact us so that we can check it.
“We also want to speak to anyone who regularly visits Oakwood Pond and the surrounding area, who has seen anything suspicious in the last two months.
“Any information you have, no matter how insignificant you believe it is, could be vital for our investigation and to get justice for Phil’s family and friends”.
A dedicated phone line has been set up specifically for the investigation and can be reached on 0800 051 4526.
Anyone with information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage related to this incident can submit a report on essex.police.uk/digital101.
To make an anonymous report, contact independent charity Crimestoppers by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.
Quote incident 582 of December 31 when providing any information.
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