Police have launched an international manhunt for Pankaj Lamba, the husband of Harshita Brella, whose body was discovered in the boot of a car in East London. Authorities believe Lamba has fled the country.
Northamptonshire Police initiated the search following concerns raised about Ms. Brella’s welfare on Wednesday. After she failed to answer the door at her home on Skegness Walk in Corby, a missing person investigation was launched. Tragically, her body was found on Thursday in a vehicle parked on Brisbane Road, Ilford, miles away from her residence.
Investigation Details
A post-mortem examination conducted on Friday at Leicester Royal Infirmary confirmed that Ms. Brella had been murdered. The precise details surrounding her death, including the location and timeframe of the killing, remain under investigation.
Northamptonshire Police, alongside the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit (EMSOU), are conducting inquiries at three key locations:
- Skegness Walk, Corby – her home address.
- Sturton Walk, Corby – a secondary location linked to the investigation.
- Brisbane Road, Ilford – where her body was discovered.
Police Appeal
Authorities have issued an urgent appeal for information regarding the whereabouts of Lamba, emphasizing that they are working “around the clock” to uncover the full circumstances of the crime. Northamptonshire Police confirmed they had previously been in contact with Ms. Brella before her death and have made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) as part of standard procedure.
Police Statement
A spokesperson for Northamptonshire Police said:
“This is a deeply distressing case, and we are committed to ensuring justice for Ms. Brella and her loved ones. We urge anyone with information about the suspect’s movements or any other relevant details to come forward immediately.”
The force added that “fast-track” inquiries had been conducted, leading to the identification of Lamba as a key suspect. His international departure has further complicated the investigation.
How to Help
Anyone with information about Lamba’s whereabouts or the circumstances of Ms. Brella’s death is urged to contact Northamptonshire Police at 101, quoting incident reference 24000678713. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
This investigation continues to unfold, with authorities urging vigilance and cooperation from the public.
