The murder investigation of Harshita Brella, 24, whose body was discovered dead inside the boot of a car, has shaken the community and drawn substantial media attention. An international manhunt is underway for her husband, 23-year-old Pankaj Lamba, who is identified as the prime suspect. Lamba is believed to have fled the country shortly after the murder.
Authorities have pieced together the timeline leading to the grim discovery on November 14, 2024. Brella's body was found abandoned in the boot of a silver Vauxhall Corsa on Brisbane Road, Ilford, East London, prompting questions surrounding the events leading to her death. Initial investigations indicate she was murdered shortly after being seen with her husband near the Corby Boasting Lake on the evening of November 10.
Details from the investigation reveal the couple had been seen on the night of her murder, and police are eager to gather more information from anyone present around Corby during the time frame of 6 PM to 9 PM on November 10. Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell has emphasized the necessity for any dashcam footage or eyewitness accounts to assist the investigation.
Family members of Brella, currently residing in Delhi, expressed their grief through heartfelt tributes. They stated, “Harshita, you left this world but you are still with us in our hearts and will always be there. We will never forget you till our last breath.” This poignant statement reflects their determination to keep her memory alive as the investigation progresses.
Brella had only moved to the UK earlier this year after marrying Lamba, raising concerns about her well-being. Prior to her murder, Brella was known to have reported incidents of domestic violence against her, which had led to her being issued with a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) following allegations made to the Northampton Magistrates’ Court.
The investigation has drawn scrutiny toward the handling of Brella’s previous issues with domestic violence by Northamptonshire Police. The force has since referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to past interactions with the victim. Assistant Chief Constable Emma James provided insight, stating: “Harshita was placed in refuge and visited and contacted by officers on several occasions throughout the investigation.”
Public calls for justice are growing, with Brella’s family seeking closure through the intensifying hunt for her husband. Lamba previously faced inquiries related to domestic abuse against Brella, which adds another layer of complexity to the current investigation. Police believe he may have made his way to India following the murder.
The police issued urgent appeals for information, encouraging the public to assist investigators by reporting any relevant sightings or interactions with Lamba. With CCTV footage released, including images of the couple near the boating lake, investigators aim to piece together the events leading up to Brella’s tragic death.
Neighbors also recounted unsettling experiences, noting they heard loud arguments coming from the couple's residence, particularly on days leading to the crime. Reports describe one disturbing incident as involving Brella sounding 'scared' during confrontations days before her body was discovered.
This gruesome case has raised awareness about domestic violence and the vulnerabilities faced by victims, particularly within the immigrant population. It has ignited discussions on the effectiveness of protective orders like the DVPO intended to safeguard those at risk.
Currently, Brella's story amplifies calls for reviewing policies surrounding domestic abuse, aiming to encourage systemic changes to help protect individuals facing violence. The bereaved family continues to call upon authorities and the public for support, emphasizing their desire for justice and accountability.
For those with information related to the murder of Harshita Brella, authorities have urged contact via the Operation Westcott hotline, emphasizing even minor details may assist the investigation significantly. The case continues to develop, and the community watches closely as emotions run high.
The case of Harshita Brella underlines the tragic reality faced by many victims of domestic violence, and as the investigation remains active, her family holds tightly to the hope for justice amid their deep sorrow.
