By Admin 
The case of Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old woman from Corby whose body was discovered in the boot of a car in east London, has taken a significant turn as her husband, Pankaj Lamba, has been charged with murder, rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behavior.
The Discovery and Investigation
On 14 November 2024, police discovered Ms. Brella’s body in the boot of a silver Vauxhall Corsa parked on Brisbane Road, Ilford. A post-mortem examination later confirmed that she had died from strangulation.
Authorities soon identified Lamba, 23, as the prime suspect. However, police believe he fled the UK immediately after his wife’s death, triggering an international manhunt.
Charges Brought Against Lamba
Following an in-depth investigation, Northamptonshire Police submitted a detailed file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). On 19 March 2025, the CPS announced that charges had been formally filed against Lamba in his absence at Northampton Magistrates’ Court.
Arrests in India and Dowry Death Allegations
Meanwhile, in India, Lamba’s parents—Sunil Devi and Darshan Singh—were arrested on 14 March 2025 under allegations related to India’s dowry death laws. Under Indian law, a dowry death occurs when a woman is killed or driven to suicide due to harassment over dowry demands within seven years of marriage.
Indian authorities have also launched a search for Lamba’s sister, Uma, who is currently on the run.
Family Seeks Justice
Ms. Brella’s sister, Sonia Dabas, welcomed the arrests, criticizing law enforcement for their slow response. She stated, “The police have so far been sleeping on this case. Now that the Delhi High Court has intervened, they have finally taken action.”
The Hunt for Pankaj Lamba
According to Ms. Brella’s family, Lamba arrived in India on 12 November 2024 and is likely hiding in Haryana or near Chandigarh. His home village, Dharoli in Haryana, has remained tight-lipped about his whereabouts, adding another layer of difficulty to the manhunt.
Official Statement from Northamptonshire Police
Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell reaffirmed the police’s commitment to securing justice for Harshita Brella. He urged the public and media to allow the judicial process to proceed without interference.
This remains a developing story, and authorities continue their efforts to locate and extradite Lamba. For updates on this case and more breaking news, stay tuned to Gilash.com.
source: sky news