A TOTAL of five men have now faced arrest in connection with the investigation into the death of an “easy-going and much-loved” man. 

An investigation led by the Serious Crime Directorate has progressed quickly after a fatal collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian near Momples Road, Harlow.

The collision took place at around 5.30pm on Saturday 29 March and a 26-year-old man sadly died at the scene.

They are now in a position to name him as Arlind Xhokola, from London. 

In a tribute to him, Arlind’s family said: 

“He was a very friendly, supportive person who would do anything for anyone, he was easy-going. 
“Arlind wanted to help everyone. Friends and family counted on him for help and support.

“He was a mellow, relaxed and patient man. He was respected and loved by many and will be missed.
“Arlind made a positive impact on his family and friends and this is a shock to all of us, but Arlind made us all become closer and together we are mourning his death as a community.
“We’ve all been brought together by the memories we share of him.”

Arlind’s girlfriend added: 

“He was a lovely person and family-oriented since a very young age.
“Arlind was working in construction to help his family and he was always telling me that he wanted to create a family. 
“He was person who was always there for everyone.”

The investigative team is continuing to explore the possibility that the fatal collision is connected to the robbery of a Ford Fiesta in nearby Pennymead, Harlow, at around 4pm on Saturday 29 March.

As a result of this ongoing work, a total of five arrests have now been made, with charges secured against one man.

Detectives are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with their inquiries.

Jeremy Heath, 50, of Ladyshot, Harlow, was arrested on Monday 31 March. 

He’s been charged with murder, robbery and possession of a knife in a public place and has been remanded in custody until a hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on Thursday 3 April.

On Tuesday 1 April, three men, all from Harlow, were arrested. 

Two, aged 39 and 50, will be questioned on suspicion of robbery and murder and remain in police custody.

The third, aged 42, was questioned on suspicion of assisting an offender and has since been released under investigation while inquiries continue. 

On Wednesday 2 April, a 37-year-old man, from Harlow, was arrested on suspicion of robbery and murder. He remains in custody. 

Neighbourhood policing officers are patrolling and retaining a presence throughout Harlow, both to assist with the investigation and provide public reassurance.

Detective Inspector James Holmes, senior investigating officer, said: 

“This was a complex incident and it’s taken time, patience and hard work from my team, together with officers and staff across the force, to reach this stage. 

“A number of key arrests have been made and I can confirm we’re not currently seeking anyone else in connection with our investigation.

“We’re determined to establish what took place that day and why, both to get answers for the family of a man who has lost his life, and for the people of Harlow who are understandably concerned.

“I would like to thank the many people who have reached out to us to help us with our inquiries and I would continue to call on anyone with concerns, or information, to get in touch.

“There are a number of ways to do so, but the simplest is through a dedicated online portal set up specifically for this investigation.”

Find the online portal here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020125R42-PO2