Essex Police have arrested two men after the body of a 59-year-old man was found in a pond near Harlow’s hospital. The victim has been identified as Phillip Lewis, affectionately known as “Scottish Phil” by his friends.
His remains were discovered on New Year’s Eve in Oakwood Pond, Essex, after a member of the public spotted a suspicious object in the water.
Authorities confirmed that a 52-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, while a 23-year-old was held on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. Both suspects are local residents of Harlow and remain in police custody.
Officers described Phil as a well-known figure in the town with a “wide circle of friends.”
Following the grim discovery, an intensive murder investigation was launched immediately. Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby pledged that his team will “work tirelessly” to bring those responsible for Phil’s death to justice.
Police began draining Oakwood Pond this week to search for vital clues that could explain how the body ended up submerged.
“It’s critical to identify potentially vital evidence,” said Detective Superintendent Kirby.
Detectives have issued a public appeal, urging local residents to review any doorbell or CCTV footage from early November onwards. They are seeking anyone who had contact with Phil or noticed suspicious activity near the pond over the past two months to come forward.
“Any information, no matter how minor, could be critical,” Kirby stressed. “We also urge anyone who regularly visits the area to step forward.”
Police are conducting door-to-door inquiries in the area and expect the cordon around Oakwood Pond to remain in place for several more days.
Anyone with information is encouraged to visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 or call 101 immediately.
Originally published by UKNIP.
