The family of a young woman whose body was discovered in the boot of a car in east London has issued a passionate plea for justice, as the prime suspect remains at large and is believed to have fled to India.
Discovery and Investigation
Harshita Brella, aged 24, was found deceased in a silver Vauxhall Corsa on Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London, on 14 November 2024. Northamptonshire Police have taken charge of the investigation, as evidence suggests that Ms Brella was strangled in Corby on the evening of 10 November, before her body was transported to Ilford.
Detectives have authorised a murder charge against her husband, Pankaj Lamba, also 24, along with two counts of rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behaviour. However, Lamba is believed to have left the United Kingdom and is now in India, prompting an international manhunt.
Family's Campaign for Justice
Ms Brella's family, including her sister Sonia Dabas, have travelled from India to the UK to campaign for justice. They have vowed to ensure that the person responsible for her death is brought to account. Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms Dabas expressed their determination: "We will not rest until Harshita gets the justice she deserves. No one should have to endure what she went through."
The family has been supported by domestic abuse charities, who highlight the tragic circumstances as a stark reminder of the dangers many women face. The case has also drawn attention to the issue of cross-border justice, as authorities in both countries work to locate and extradite the suspect.
Northamptonshire Police have urged anyone with information about Lamba's whereabouts to come forward, emphasising that they are committed to bringing him to justice. A spokesperson said: "Our thoughts remain with Harshita's family at this difficult time. We are pursuing all lines of inquiry to locate Pankaj Lamba and ensure he faces the full force of the law."
The community in Ilford has been shaken by the discovery, with local residents expressing shock and grief. Vigils have been held in memory of Ms Brella, and a fundraising campaign has been launched to support her family's stay in the UK.
As the investigation continues, Ms Brella's family remains hopeful that justice will prevail, despite the challenges posed by the suspect's flight abroad.
