Loughton: Three arrests after Enfield man’s body found in woodland

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man’s body was discovered in a woodland in Loughton, Essex.

Officers were called to the body of a man found near Oakwood Hill Industrial Estate at around 11:55pm on Saturday, October 16.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Metropolitan Police believe the man had been reported missing from an address in Enfield on Friday.

The police said a key line of inquiry is that the man and a woman were taken against their will in a vehicle.

Detectives believe the man reported missing is the man found in Loughton. A post-mortem examination and form identification will take place in due course.

The woman, who is in her 30s, has been found physically unharmed, police say. The man was in his 40s.

Police are providing specialist support to the family of the deceased and the woman.

The three men are in police custody after they were arrested in Kent.

Det Ch Insp Kate Kieran said: "While the investigation remains at an early stage, a key line of enquiry is that the man and woman were taken against their will in a vehicle on Thursday night.

"I need anyone who was in the Ebony Crescent area on the night of Thursday October 13 and may have witnessed something suspicious, to contact police immediately.

“A police presence will remain in the Oakwood Hill Industrial Estate area for the coming days as we work to complete further enquiries.

“We offer our apologies to anyone inconvenienced by the disruption of road closures.

“I’d appeal to any local people in the area who might also have helpful information, video and images to contact us.

“I can assure residents in Enfield and Essex that we are doing absolutely everything we can to understand the chain of events here, and bring to justice those responsible.”

"This is a very complex and fast-moving investigation."

Anyone who has information that could help police should call 101 or tweet @MetCC ref CAD 3901/14 Oct.

To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.