ESSEX Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst has spoken regarding the murder and attacks on Polish men over the past week.

He said:

“The murder of Arek Jozwik was horrific and shocking. I send my sincere condolences to Arek’s family, friends and everyone who knew and loved him.

“The response of both the Polish community and the people of Harlow has been strong and dignified, making it clear that hate crime and racism have no place in our society.

“It was therefore disappointing and disturbing that two Polish men were assaulted in the early hours of Sunday September 4 in Kitson Way, Harlow.

“Whilst all lines of inquiry remain open, Essex Police is investigating both the murder and the assault as potential hate crimes. I urge anyone with information about these vicious attacks to contact detectives on 101 or call Crimestopppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

“Local residents and shopkeepers have spoken of persistent Anti-Social Behaviour and low level criminality in The Stow over recent months. My expectation is that Essex Police will crack down on Anti-Social Behaviour, that the Community Policing Teams will provide visible and accessible local policing in Harlow, and that local patrols will be stepped up.

“Essex has long been a tolerant and welcoming county, and it will remain so.”