Boys Held Over Possible 'Hate Crime' Murder Of Polish Man

Six teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of murder after two Polish men were set upon in a "vicious attack" outside an Essex takeaway.

The men were reportedly eating outside the restaurant in Harlow at 11.35pm on Saturday when they were approached by a group of boys.

A 40-year-old man, from Harlow, named locally as Arkadiusz Jozwik, died of head injuries on Monday.

A 43-year-old man, also from Harlow, was later discharged from hospital after treatment for suspected hand fractures and bruising to his stomach.

Flowers have been left on a bench near to where the attack took place in The Stow.

Essex Police say one line of enquiry is that the man's death was a hate crime.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Al Pitcher, of the Kent and Essex serious crime directorate, said: "This is now a murder investigation and our enquiries have quickly led to the arrest of five teenage boys.

"Following this vicious attack, a man has sadly lost his life and I urge anyone with information to contact us as soon as possible."

Four 15-year-olds and one 16-year-old, all from Harlow, were arrested on Monday on suspicion of attempted murder.

They were then re-arrested on suspicion of murder.

All five have been released on police bail pending further inquiries until 7 October.

A sixth boy, a 15-year-old from Harlow, was arrested on Tuesday afternoon on suspicion of murder and is awaiting questioning.

Councillor Jon Clempner, leader of Harlow Council, said: "I am saddened and shocked by this brutal attack in our community.

"My heartfelt thoughts and sympathies go out to the families and friends affected by this meaningless attack.

"I know Harlow and its communities will support each other through this and that all our communities will stand together."

:: Anyone with information is asked to contact the Harlow Major Investigation Team on 101.