OFFICERS investigating the death of a man in Harlow are continuing their enquiries as part of a large-scale murder investigation. 

The investigation, which launched on New Years Eve following the discovery of human remains at Oakwood Pond in Harlow has remained a priority for Essex Police over the last fortnight. The enquiries involved draining Oakwood Pond in order to gather evidence, which we can confirm has now concluded. 

Further enquiries and searches are taking place across Harlow town to allow investigating officers to continue gathering evidence. You may continue notice the presence of specialist officers.

The victim in this investigation has since been identified as 59-year-old man Phillip Lewis, who was known locally in Harlow as ‘Scottish Phil’.

Lee Clarke, 52 of Wedhey, Harlow has since been charged with murder in connection with this investigation. He has since been remanded into custody and will appear in court on 8 March. 

A second man, a 23-year-old from Harlow was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and since been released on bail. 

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby said “Following the charge of a man in connection with this investigation, enquiries have been continuing in order to secure justice for Phillip’s family. 

“We are so grateful for the support we have received from the public, particularly the community in Harlow. We are still asking for anyone who hasn’t contacted us but has any information which could help to get in touch.” 

A Major Incident Public Portal has also been set up here as a way for the public to submit information: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020122Q39-PO1

If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

Alternatively you can call us on 101.

In an emergency always call 999.

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

Please quote incident 582 of 31 December when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.