ABRIDGE: Murder link to job seekers (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

ABRIDGE: Murder link to job seekers

11:45am Tuesday 30th September 2008

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DETECTIVES investigating the murder of a man in his home are trying to trace a group of men who were knocking on doors asking for work in the area.

Officers have stepped up patrols in the quiet Abridge neighbourhood since Clive Enkel, 53, was beaten as he protected his elderly father at their home in Alderwood Drive on Thursday, September 25.

A police spokesman said: "Anyone who can recall being approached and asked for work is asked to contact the police.

"It is also likely the suspects had access to a vehicle, so a further specific point of appeal is for any suspicious vehicle activity."

Officers do not have descriptions of the suspects but are keen to remind residents not to let strangers into their homes.

Senior investigating officer Supt John Quinton said: "This is an appaling attack on a man which left his family devastated. "This type of crime is very rare and I’m confident someone must have information that will help us catch those responsible.

“No stone will be left unturned in the investigation and I’m making a direct appeal to anyone with any information to contact police immediately."

"We will treat it in the strictest of confidence, but if you know anything at all please contact us."

Apart from house-to-house enquiries, a mobile police van is now parked in the road and a neighbourhood policing unit has dropped leaflets to 400 homes in the area to reassure residents.

Chief Inspector Jonathan Baldwin, divisional police commander, said: "The nature of this crime is very rare, especially in Essex, but we understand that this may concern local residents.

"I want to reassure local people that a detailed and thorough investigation is under way to catch those responsible and local officers are availabble to speak with any residents who wish to talk to us about any concerns or worried they might have."

He added: "We’re increasing patrols in the area and I would encourage anyone who wants to talk to us about any concerns they may have to either stop the officers when they are out on the street, or visit them at the van in Alderwood Drive."

Anyone with any information should ring 01277 262220 or 0300 333 4444 extension 75229.

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