The tragic death of 24-year-old Harshita Brella has shocked communities across the UK. Her body was discovered in the boot of a car in Ilford, East London, last Thursday, just one day after she was reported missing from her home in Corby, Northamptonshire.
Police have identified Harshita’s husband, Pankaj Lamba, as the prime suspect in her murder. Detectives believe he killed Harshita, placed her body in the car boot, and fled the country. An international manhunt is currently underway to locate him.
Speaking from Delhi, India, Harshita’s mother, Sudesh Kumari, said, “I want my son-in-law to be brought to justice and I want my daughter’s body brought home.” Her words reflect the grief and determination of the family seeking answers and justice.
Harshita moved to the UK in April 2024 following an arranged marriage in August 2023. Her sister, Sonia Dabas, revealed that Harshita’s life had been marked by turmoil and abuse. “She told us she fled her husband after he hit her. He chased and struck her again on the street,” Sonia said. “A local stepped in, and that’s why he left her.”
Neighbours in Corby reported hearing heated arguments from the couple’s home on the night Harshita disappeared. The following day, her body was found nearly 100 miles away in Ilford.
Harshita was protected by a Domestic Violence Protection Order issued in September 2024, designed to prevent contact from her husband. The order lasted 28 days but tragically was not enough to prevent this fatal outcome.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police and Northamptonshire Police continue their investigation and urge anyone with information about Pankaj Lamba’s whereabouts to come forward immediately.
The case has sparked widespread outrage and discussions about domestic violence and the urgent need for better protection for vulnerable women. Local authorities have expressed their deepest condolences and have vowed to bring Harshita’s killer to justice.
If you have any information about this case or about Pankaj Lamba, please contact the police immediately. Tips can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
