UK police on lookout for two brothers over 39 truck deaths in Essex

The UK police have started looking for two brothers in connection with the 39 dead bodies found in a truck in Waterglade Industrial Park in Grays, Essex. Police said that the two brothers are Ronan Hughes, 40, and Christopher Hughes, 34, both from Armagh in Northern Ireland. They are wanted on suspicion of manslaughter and human trafficking which led to the death of 39 people.

Crucial to investigation

Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart Hooper, who is leading the investigation, said that finding and speaking to the Hughes brothers is crucial to the investigation.

“At this time we believe they are in Northern Ireland but they also have links to the Irish Republic,” said Hooper. “If you know where they are or have any information about their whereabouts I need you to call my team,” he added.

Read: 'Most Of 39 Found Dead In Lorry From Vietnam', Claims Community Leader

Driver appeared at Magistrates’ Court

Earlier on October 28, Maurice Robinson, 25, charged with 39 counts of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic people, conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration, and money laundering, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court via video link. He has been remanded in custody and is next due to appear at the Old Bailey on 25 November. Robinson was arrested soon after the bodies were recovered from the truck on October 23. 

A 38-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman from Warrington were also arrested in Cheshire on October 25 but both have been released on bail until 11 November. Another 46-year-old man from Northern Ireland was arrested at Stansted Airport and he has been released on bail until November 13. Police have asked the public and media not to speculate in relation to the bail of these people or their identities.

Read: Essex Lorry Deaths: All 39 Victims Were Chinese Nationals, Say Police

PM signs book of Condolence

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel signed a book of condolence following the deaths of 39 people. Thurrock Council then opened the gardens for those who wished to pay their respects to the people who lost their lives. "I would like to thank the emergency service workers and anyone who has come together to support this investigation in such difficult and traumatic circumstances," said Essex Police Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington.

Read: UK Police Raids Three Properties In Connection With 39 Bodies In Lorry

Read: CCTV Captures Lorry Carrying 39 Bodies Moments Before It Entered Depot