The prime suspect in the murder of a woman whose body was discovered in the boot of a car remains at large, as her family pledges to pursue justice. Harshita Brella, 24, was found in a silver Vauxhall Corsa on Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London, on November 14 2024. Authorities believe her husband, Pankaj Lamba, has fled to India.
Family's Quest for Justice
Ms Brella’s sister, Sonia Dabas, speaking to ITV News during a visit to the UK, stated: “Her pain, strength and memories are inside me and I’m going to get justice for my sister.” Members of Ms Brella’s family, who travelled from India, are campaigning for justice. A murder charge has been authorised against Lamba, 24, who is also accused of two counts of rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behaviour.
Details of the Crime
Northamptonshire Police previously indicated that Ms Brella was strangled in Corby on the evening of November 10, and her body was driven to Ilford the following day. Ms Brella’s mother, Sudesh Kumari, speaking through an interpreter, expressed her shock: “Whenever she would call she would say she is fine and happy and enjoying life. She would say to me, ‘mummy, I will bring you over here, my life is happy, I will bring you when I have some money and my own house.’ I never anticipated that I would have to travel to Corby under these tragic circumstances. I feel so sad about coming here without her.”
During their visit, Ms Brella’s family went to a lake where she had been seen. Her father, Satbir Singh, told ITV News: “It gives me a pain to see this place again. I would have come with her. Now that I have seen this place, I miss my daughter a lot.”
Police Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell, speaking in 2025 after Lamba was charged, said: “We are committed to securing justice for Harshita and her family and continue to offer our support at this difficult time. It remains an active investigation and as such, there continue to be aspects of the case that we are unable to comment on at this time. We would urge all parties to respect the judicial process to ensure the integrity of the proceedings.”
