One of UK's most wanted fugitives arrested in Morocco over Essex drive-by party shooting

A man wanted in connection with a drive-by killing in Essex has been arrested by police in Morocco.

One of the UK’s most wanted suspects – Nana Oppong, previously of Newham, east London – was detained as he attempted to enter the North African country from Spain in September last year, according to the National Crime Agency (NCA).

The NCA only revealed details of his arrest on Wednesday. He remains in custody and extradition proceedings to return him to the UK are under way.

The 42-year-old was named last year by the NCA as one of the UK’s most wanted fugitives. At the time, he was believed to be hiding in Spain.

Oppong was being hunted as part of an Essex Police investigation into the murder of Robert Powell in the early hours of 13 June 2020.

He was shot eight times with a 9mm pistol outside a party in Water Lane, Roydon, Harlow.

It is alleged Oppong and the 50-year-old grandfather were from rival criminal factions.

As well as featuring on the NCA’s most wanted campaign, an Interpol red notice – worldwide alert – was issued for Oppong.

Police hunted for Oppong ‘night and day’

Steve Reynolds, NCA regional manager in Spain, said: “Oppong’s arrest came about after a sustained campaign to trace him and because of the vigilance of our Moroccan partners and support from Interpol.

“This is another excellent result and shows once again that UK law enforcement does not give up on finding those who await justice in the UK.

“Working with our colleagues at home and abroad we will continue to hunt those on the run.”

Detective Superintendent Stephen Jennings, who has been leading the Essex Police investigation, said: “Numerous officers and staff across all agencies involved in this case have been working day and night to get justice for Robert’s family.”

He added: “Our work continues and we won’t stop until Nana Oppong is back in the UK and facing the courts.”