Family of Harshita Brella Urges Justice Following Her Murder in East London

The family of Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old woman found dead in a car boot in east London, is seeking justice. UK police are searching for her husband, Pankaj Lamba, as a suspect in her murder. Northamptonshire Police have released CCTV images and a timeline indicating she was killed on November 10 at her Corby home. The preliminary cause of death is strangulation.

Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell from the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit stated, "Our inquiries have established that Pankaj Lamba drove a Silver Vauxhall Corsa from Corby to Ilford sometime on the morning of Monday, November 11. We suspect Harshita’s body had been placed in the boot of the vehicle by Lamba before leaving Corby. Lamba then abandoned the vehicle in Brisbane Road, Ilford and made his getaway."

Family's Plea for Justice

Harshita's family in Delhi expressed their grief and desire for justice. Her father, Satbir Brella, told the BBC he wants his son-in-law brought to justice and his daughter's body returned home. He described Harshita as a simple young woman who aspired to be a teacher. She had moved to the UK in April after marrying Lamba through an arranged match last year.

Her sister, Sonia Dabas, mentioned that Harshita worked in a warehouse while Lamba was a student in London. Dabas said Harshita struggled due to her husband's behaviour and had advised her to return to India. "She was a part of me and I was a part of her," Dabas added emotionally.

Investigation Details

The family last spoke with Harshita on November 10 when she mentioned preparing dinner for Lamba. Her phone was off for two days afterward, prompting concern by November 13. Friends were asked to file a complaint with Northamptonshire Police, leading to the discovery of her body and the start of a murder investigation.

Chief Inspector Paul Cash stated, "Our inquiries lead us to suspect that Harshita was murdered in Northamptonshire earlier this month by her husband Pankaj Lamba." He added that they believe Lamba transported her body from Northamptonshire to Ilford before fleeing the country.

Domestic Abuse Concerns

The police confirmed Harshita had been under a domestic abuse order against Lamba, restricting him from approaching or threatening her. The family revealed that at the end of August, Harshita called her father saying she had run away due to violence from Lamba.

More than 60 detectives are working on the case, following various leads including house-to-house inquiries and CCTV analysis. The police continue to appeal for information that could help solve the case and bring justice for Harshita.

Harshita's father hopes her body can be returned to India for peace. "Then maybe we will too," he said, reflecting the family's deep sorrow and longing for closure.