Hitmen Convicted for Brutal Grandad’s Murder in Harlow
Two hitmen have been found guilty of the cold-blooded murder of Robert ‘Fox’ Powell, a 50-year-old grandfather. The savage killing rocked the quiet Roydon community in Harlow, after Mr. Powell was shot eight times outside a party in the early hours of June 13, 2020.
Drive-By Shooting Caught on CCTV
Nana Oppong, 43, and Israar Shah, 39, masterminded the chilling crime. They used a Ford Kuga with cloned number plates to execute a drive-by shooting as Mr. Powell left the party at around 4:45am. Two women nearby were also injured by the gunfire.
The hitmen fled the scene in getaway vehicles – a Toyota Prius and a Vauxhall Zafira – later traced to an industrial estate in Epping, where the Ford Kuga was abandoned.
Encrypted Chat Breaks Case Wide Open
Detectives cracked the case by accessing EncroChat, a secret messaging platform. The encrypted chats revealed Oppong’s detailed plans for the hit, including his use of 9mm ammo and previous failed attempts on Mr. Powell’s life. Oppong also tried to cover his tracks by deleting messages.
Evidence showed Shah’s involvement through surveillance of the Toyota Prius used to scout the scene. Shah’s vehicle moved in convoy with the support Zafira during the murder.
Fugitives Nabbed Abroad
The killers fled the UK immediately after the shooting. Oppong was caught in Morocco in September 2022 attempting to enter with fake papers. Shah was tracked down in Spain in December 2022 and extradited back to face justice.
Family Mourns Lost Future
“My son was an awesome person with a smile that still warms my heart,”
said Mr. Powell’s mother on the second anniversary of his death. “He was a father of three and a grandfather of two. We all love and miss him dearly.”
Detectives Praise Crack Teamwork
Detective Superintendent Stephen Jennings, who led the probe, described the murder as a planned execution, not a random attack. “Oppong held a grudge and was determined to see Mr. Powell dead. Our team’s relentless work reviewing CCTV and phone data cracked this case wide open.”
Justice Served
The verdicts at Woolwich Crown Court deliver some closure for Robert Powell’s family. Oppong and Shah were found guilty of murder and possession of a firearm. Oppong also admitted to conspiring to supply Class A drugs. Sentencing is set for May 31.
This grim affair highlights the deadly costs of organised crime—and the dogged police work that brings killers to justice.
