The family of a woman whose body was discovered in the boot of a car have pledged to secure justice for her, while the prime suspect in her murder remains at large. Harshita Brella, 24, was found in a silver Vauxhall Corsa on Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London, on November 14, 2024. It is believed that her husband, Pankaj Lamba, has fled to India.
Family's Plea for Justice
During a visit to the United Kingdom, Ms Brella's sister, Sonia Dabas, told ITV News: "Her pain, strength and memories are inside me, and I am going to get justice for my sister." Ms Dabas spoke as members of Ms Brella's family, originally from India, visited the UK as part of their campaign for justice.
Charges Against the Suspect
A murder charge has been authorised against Pankaj Lamba, 24, who is also accused of two counts of rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behaviour. Northamptonshire Police previously stated that they believe Ms Brella was strangled in Corby on the evening of November 10, and her body was driven to Ilford the following day.
Mother's Heartfelt Words
Ms Brella's mother, Sudesh Kumari, speaking through an interpreter, said: "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."
Father's Grief
During their trip, Ms Brella's family visited a lake where she had been seen. Her father, Satbir Singh, told ITV News: "It gives me 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 Appeal
On the anniversary of Ms Brella's death in November last year, Detective Superintendent Johnny Campbell said: "As we remember Harshita Brella on the first anniversary of her death, our thoughts very much remain with her family and all who loved her. Northamptonshire Police has provided family liaison support to Harshita's family throughout the past year. In July, I was privileged to travel to India to meet with family members and return the personal belongings of their much loved and much missed daughter and sister." Indian police are now hunting for Lamba.
