• Source:JND
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The tragic murder of 24-year-old Harshita Brella has sent shockwaves through the community, capturing widespread media attention and sparking an international manhunt. Brella's body was found in the boot of a car, with her husband, 23-year-old Pankaj Lamba, emerging as the primary suspect in the case. Authorities believe Lamba fled the country soon after the crime, intensifying efforts to locate and apprehend him. 

Brella's family believes Harshita's murder was planned, as Pankaj fled to India just a day after the crime. Harshita's maternal uncle, Sandeep Ahlawat, revealed that they attempted to seek help from the UK Embassy in Delhi, but were denied entry, as reported by PTI.

Authorities have determined that Harshita Brella was likely murdered on November 10, shortly after being seen with her husband near Corby Boating Lake. Her body was discovered on November 14 in the boot of an abandoned car in Ilford, East London.

Harshita Brella, who had moved to the UK earlier this year after marrying Pankaj Lamba, had reported incidents of domestic violence before her murder. As a result, she was granted a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) following allegations made at Northampton Magistrates' Court.

Detectives investigating the murder have released a CCTV image showing her walking with her husband near the boating lake on November 10. Police are urging anyone in the Cottingham Road area that evening to come forward with information.

Harshita Brella's Family Pays Tribute

In a tribute shared by Northamptonshire Police on Friday, Harshita Brella's family expressed: "Harshita, you left this world but you are still with us in our hearts and will always be there. We will never forget you till our last breath. Always stay with us. We miss you in every very moment of our life."

Northamptonshire Police are urging people who were near Corby Boating Lake, Cottingham Road, and Westcott Way on the evening of November 10, and may have dashcam footage or other relevant information, to come forward. Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell confirmed that investigations show Pankaj and Harshita were in the area on that evening, and searches have been conducted in the surrounding area as part of the inquiry.

Harshita’s Sister Reveals Last Conversation Before Tragic Death

Harshita's elder sister, Sonia Dabas, told PTI, "We had our last video call with Harshita on November 10, when she mentioned she was preparing dinner for Pankaj, who was coming over."
"From the following day, her phone was unreachable. By then, we feared that Pankaj had killed her," she added.

Sonia expressed, "My parents are devastated by the tragic news. We are hoping the Indian government will intervene and ensure justice for my sister."

Sonia believes Harshita's murder was planned, as Pankaj returned to India just one day after the killing. She stated that they had informed London police of his return and filed a dowry harassment complaint against Pankaj and his parents with local authorities. 

Harshita Brella’s Domestic Violence Case

Harshita, a victim of domestic violence, was issued a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) in September. Following her death, Northamptonshire Police referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to its prior involvement. The force reviewed its handling of a domestic abuse case involving Brella in August, where the alleged perpetrator was identified, arrested, and released on bail with conditions. A domestic homicide review has been initiated to identify any lessons from the case.