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29th Oct 2019

Essex police searching for two brothers from Armagh in connection with Essex lorry deaths

Carl Kinsella

Essex Lorry

The men are believed to have links to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Essex police investigating the discovery of 39 dead bodies in the back of a lorry last week have confirmed that they are looking to speak to two men from Armagh.

In a statement published on Tuesday afternoon, Essex Police said: “Ronan Hughes, 40, from Armagh in Northern Ireland and his brother Christopher, who is 34, and also from Armagh, are wanted on suspicion of manslaughter and human trafficking.”

Ronan is also said to go by the name ‘Rowan.’

The men have connections to both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart Hooper, who is leading the investigation, said: “Finding and speaking to the Hughes brothers is crucial to our investigation.

“At this time we believe they are in Northern Ireland but they also have links to the Irish Republic.

“If you know where they are or have any information about their whereabouts I need you to call my team.

“This is a case where 39 men and women have tragically died and support from the community is going to be vital to help bring those responsible to justice.”

Maurice Robinson, the 25-year-old driver of the lorry from Armagh, remains in custody — charged with 39 counts of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic people, conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration, and money laundering.

Three other suspects have been released on bail.

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