Police in Morocco have arrested a man wanted in connection to a drive-by murder in Essex.

According to the National Crime Agency (NCA), Nana Oppong was one of the most wanted suspects in the UK. He tried to enter North Africa from Spain in September 2013.

On Wednesday, the NCA did not release details about his arrest. He is still in custody. Extradition proceedings are underway to bring him back to the UK.

The 42-year old was dubbed last year by the NCA one of the most wanted fugitives in the UK. He was believed to be hiding out in Spain at the time.

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Oppong was being sought by Essex Police as part of an investigation into Robert Powell’s murder in the early hours on 13 June 2020.

He was shot eight more times outside of a party at Water Lane, Roydon and Harlow with a 9mm pistol.

Oppong and his grandfather, 50 years old, are alleged to have been from rival criminal groups.

Oppong was also featured on the NCA’s Most Wanted Campaign. An Interpol red alert – worldwide alert – was issued for Oppong.

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Steve Reynolds, NCA Regional Manager in Spain, stated that Opong was arrested after a long campaign to track him down and thanks to the support of Interpol and our Moroccan partners.

“This is an excellent result that shows that the UK law enforcement will not stop trying to find those who are still awaiting justice in the UK.

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

Stephen Jennings, Detective Superintendent of Essex Police, has been leading the investigation. He said that “Numerous officers, staff from all agencies involved in this matter have been working night and day to get justice Robert’s family.”

He said, “Our work continues and will not stop until Nana Oppong returns to the UK and faces the courts.”