The tragic death of Harshita Brella, a young woman of Indian origin, has raised numerous questions, especially regarding the involvement of Pankaj Lamba. Authorities are piecing together the events surrounding her murder as the investigation unfolds.
The murder case
Harshita Brella, a 26-year-old woman originally from India, was found dead under suspicious circumstances in her in Corby, Northamptonshire, UK. Her body was recovered from the boot of a car in east London on November 14. The car belonged to her husband Lamba and was parked in Brisbane Road, Ilford.
Police have confirmed that she was murdered, and investigations are focused on determining the exact cause of death and the events leading up to the crime.
Harshita, who had moved to the UK to pursue her professional aspirations, had reportedly been living with her husband, Pankaj Lamba, at the time of her death.
Her untimely death has shocked both her family and the broader Indian community in the UK, with friends describing her as an ambitious and hardworking individual with a bright future ahead.
Pankaj Lamba’s involvement
Pankaj Lamba, Harshita’s husband, has been named as the prime suspect in the murder investigation. The couple had reportedly been in a tumultuous relationship, and Lamba’s name has been connected to prior allegations of domestic violence.
He had previously been arrested in September, and a domestic violence protection order had been placed against him, barring him from harassing or intimidating Harshita. This order ended just a month before her death.
While Lamba is currently being investigated, authorities have not formally charged him. It is believed that he may have fled to India, but the Indian authorities have not intervened as the crime occurred in the UK. The police are continuing to piece together the details of the case, including the nature of the couple’s relationship and any potential motives.
The family’s account
Harshita’s family has expressed deep concern, stating that she had confided in them about fearing for her life due to Pankaj Lamba’s actions. They claim she had recently suffered a miscarriage, which added strain to their relationship. Her relatives also allege that Harshita had told them she feared her husband might kill her.
Pankaj Lamba’s mother, Sunil Devi, spoke to the BBC from her home in Haryana, India, saying that she had spoken to her son and daughter-in-law just days before Harshita’s death. According to her, the couple seemed happy, and Harshita had even sent pictures of food they had cooked on November 10, the same day police believe Harshita was murdered.
Despite these conversations, Harshita’s family claims she had been living in fear and had sought help. Sunil Devi, visibly distraught, said she could not believe her son could be involved in such a crime, emphasizing her shock and disbelief at the situation, reported BBC.
Investigation and law enforcement efforts
UK authorities are treating the case with high priority, but details on the investigation remain scarce. Northamptonshire Police have not disclosed whether they are in contact with Indian authorities, but reports suggest that Indian police have not yet been able to assist, given that the crime took place in the UK.
The police are continuing their efforts to locate Pankaj Lamba, who is believed to have fled to India. Authorities have not confirmed whether they have requested Indian police involvement.
Public and family reactions
The case has sparked widespread attention, particularly within the Indian community. Harshita’s family is calling for justice and clarity, and many are hoping for a swift resolution to the mystery surrounding her death. Meanwhile, Sunil Devi, Pankaj Lamba’s mother, has expressed feelings of devastation and helplessness, saying that her family is “completely finished” by the ordeal.