UK Police Hunt Fugitive Husband in Murder of Harshita Brella; Investigation Launched into Domestic Abuse Handling
November 26, 2024
Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old woman, was last seen on November 10, 2024, at Corby Boating Lake in Northamptonshire, where she is believed to have been killed.
Detectives have released a CCTV image showing Brella with her husband, Pankaj Lamba, near the boating lake on the evening of her disappearance, appealing for witnesses.
Police suspect that Brella was strangled, and Lamba, 23, has been identified as the prime suspect in her murder.
Prior to her death, Lamba was arrested on September 3, 2024, for domestic abuse following a report made by Brella in August.
After his arrest, Lamba was released on conditional bail, which included a domestic violence protection order, raising concerns about the police's handling of the case.
Initial post-mortem results indicate that Brella died from strangulation, according to police reports.
Brella's body was discovered in the boot of a silver Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, East London, on November 14, 2024, prompting an international manhunt for Lamba.
Lamba is currently a fugitive and the prime suspect in Brella's murder, with police actively searching for him.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) plans to reach out to Brella's family to explain their role in the investigation and offer condolences.
The IOPC has launched an investigation into how Northamptonshire Police handled Brella's domestic abuse report and their interactions with her prior to her death.
Support services for victims of domestic abuse, such as Women's Aid and SupportLine, provide essential resources and helplines for those in need.
National helplines and organizations are available to assist victims of domestic abuse, highlighting the importance of accessible support.
Summary based on 4 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Nov 26, 2024
Harshita Brella: Pankaj Lamba was previously arrested, IOPC says
The Mirror • Nov 26, 2024
Husband arrested for 'domestic abuse before killing wife found in car boot'
Evening Standard • Nov 26, 2024
Harshita Brella’s husband previously arrested over domestic abuse – watchdog