Doctor’s Family Murdered in Harlow Fire: 10 Years On, Mystery Deepens
Tragic Memorial for Shakoor Family
It’s been a decade since Dr Abdul Shakoor’s family was wiped out in a horrific fire at their Harlow home in 2012. Dr Shakoor’s wife, Dr Sabah Usmani, their sons Muneeb, nine, Rayyan, six, and daughter Hira, twelve, perished in the blaze. Their younger children, Sohaib, 11, and Maheen, three, died later in hospital.
On Saturday, a solemn memorial service took place at the Harlow Islamic Centre, with Dr Shakoor travelling all the way from Pakistan to honour his lost loved ones. “My loving wife was my best friend,” he said. “I obviously had a difficult time on this day 10 years ago.”
Still Seeking Answers
The investigation remains open after all these years. Police say “there are facts in this case that don’t add up.”
- A white male in his twenties was seen cycling away from the area but has never come forward.
- Dr Shakoor’s laptop, with a distinctive two-pin plug, was stolen during the incident and remains missing.
- A mysterious note about the fire was discovered later in a local Boots store.
- An anonymous tip was given to Essex Police days after the tragedy — officers want to identify the caller.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe urged witnesses to step forward, saying, “Any information about these lines of inquiry, or anything else about this tragedy, would benefit our investigation.”
Fire Was No Accident
The fire started downstairs while the family slept upstairs. Dr Shakoor jumped from a bedroom window in a desperate bid to save them but was overcome by smoke inhalation. Police believe burglars deliberately set the fire.
Dr Shakoor praised the support of the community and his faith, saying they helped him endure the pain. “My children loved living here,” he added warmly.
How You Can Help
Essex Police continue to hunt for clues. If you have any information, you don’t need to talk directly to the police. Instead, contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or via their website. You can also submit info through the Major Incident Public Portal.
The shocking Harlow fire remains unsolved, but the hunt for justice for the Shakoor family pushes on.
