The communities of Corby and Ilford are reeling from the tragic death of 24-year-old Harshita Brella, whose lifeless body was found stuffed inside the boot of a car, leading to an international manhunt for her husband, Pankaj Lamba. The investigation has uncovered alarming details surrounding the circumstances of her death, including previous incidents of domestic violence and chilling witness accounts.
On Wednesday, just days before the discovery of Harshita's body, neighbors heard disturbing commotion coming from her house. Kelly Philp, who lives next door, described overhearing what sounded like a fierce argument between a man and woman. Though the argument was conducted in another language, she distinctly recalls the tension: "I heard banging around and the woman sounded scared," she recounted. Despite her immediate concerns, she didn't call the police, mistakenly assuming it was merely a relationship dispute.
Philp's worries escalated when, later, she heard men arguing outside and the sound of what she described as two men yelling early Saturday morning, shortly after hearing the back gate of Harshita's property slam shut. "When I saw police later, I suspected someone had been hurt. I feel really on edge now and vulnerable. I feel so sad about the loss of the lass. I can't get over it, I can't believe it," she expressed, reflecting the communal shock.
The police were prompted to conduct welfare checks on Harshita after receiving calls from the public. Officers arrived at her home on Skegness Walk but received no response. This action led to the launch of a missing person investigation, which tragically culminated with the grim discovery of her body on Brisbane Road, Ilford, nearly 96 miles from her home.
A post-mortem examination confirmed the worst: Harshita had been murdered. Authorities suspect she may have been killed by her husband, Pankaj Lamba, who has since become the prime suspect. Chief Inspector Paul Cash stated, "We suspect Lamba transported Harshita's body from Northamptonshire to Ilford by car and has now fled the country." This has sparked fears among residents and drawn attention to the vulnerability of domestic violence victims.
Previously, Harshita had been the subject of domestic violence, with police confirming she had obtained a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) just weeks prior to her death. This order was meant to provide her with some measure of protection by preventing the perpetrator from contacting or intimidating her. Unfortunately, it seems this measure was insufficient to keep her safe.
Following her death, Northamptonshire Police referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to previous interactions they had with Harshita. This scrutiny raises questions about the effectiveness of protective measures and the support offered to victims of domestic violence. While police employed various strategies, including house-to-house inquiries and monitoring CCTV footage, the lack of immediate action on the earlier reports of distress from Harshita’s home raises serious concerns.
Family, friends, and neighbors have described Harshita as kind and vibrant, with so much potential. The impact of her death is felt deeply throughout the community. There’s widespread disbelief mixed with grief, as many grapple with how someone so young and full of life can be taken so abruptly.
The investigation now involves over 60 detectives from multiple police units, intensively working to piece together the circumstances surrounding her tragic end. They are appealing for anyone with pertinent information to come forward. Chief Inspector Cash made it clear: "If you saw anything suspicious or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us." Helpers have been identified, and additional police presence is expected to maintain safety and provide reassurance within the community.
Though the authorities are pursuing every lead, the broader societal issue of domestic violence and the challenges faced by victims provide stark reminders of the urgency for change. Harshita’s heart-wrenching situation highlights the need for increased awareness and preventative measures to protect those who find themselves trapped in abusive relationships.
The community stands united, mourning the loss of Harshita Brella, hoping for justice and seeking to bring to light the struggles faced by those caught up in cycles of violence.
This tragedy not only affects those who knew Harshita but also serves as a call to action for society as a whole to address the pervasive issue of domestic violence and prioritize the safety of its most vulnerable members. The emotional toll of her death will linger long after the investigation is concluded; it reminds everyone of the realities too many face but are often kept hidden behind closed doors.
