Corby murder probe detective remains 'determined' to secure justice for Harshita Brella
Detective Superintendent Johnny Campbell says the investigation into Harshita Brella's death in Corby remains ongoing, with the police continuing to work with international agencies to secure justice for her family.
Today marks the second anniversary of the death of Corby warehouse worker Harshita Brella, 24, who was killed in her adopted town.
Harshita was murdered on November 10, 2024, in Corby and her husband, prime suspect Pankaj Lamba subsequently went on the run.
It’s believed he fled to India where he is thought to remain evading justice.
In his absence, Northamptonshire Police charged him with her murder in March 2025. Since then, there has been no news from official channels.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Johnny Campbell said: “The investigation into Harshita Brella's death in November 2024 is ongoing and we remain as determined as ever to secure justice for her.
“In March 2025, Harshita’s husband, 25-year-old Pankaj Lamba, was charged with her murder. With criminal proceedings active in the UK, we are unable to go into detail about the case. However, we continue to work with the appropriate agencies both in the UK and internationally as the investigation continues.
"We remember Harshita on the second anniversary of her death and our thoughts remain with her family and all who loved her.”
Harshita’s parents arranged her marriage to Pankaj Lamba in August 2023. At that time, Lamba planned to take on a one-year management diploma and left for the UK in September 2023. In February 2024 Harshita joined him on a dependant visa.
Harshita got a job at the Wincanton Web on May 10, and was promoted three times in six months. Lamba was working as a security guard while he was studying.
Harshita’s sister Sonia has been seeking justice for her ever since and is due to travel to the UK for her second visit to highlight the case.
The 24-year-old was subjected to domestic violence and controlling behaviours.
Despite police being aware of her situation, Harshita’s body was discovered inside a car boot on November 14, 2024 - her family had alerted police she hadn’t answered their calls for several days.
Harshita and Lamba were seen in CCTV pictures walking at Corby boating lake on the evening November 10.
On November 14, 2024, a murder investigation was launched after Harshita’s body was discovered in the Ilford area of London after a tip off.
In May, her family travelled 4,000 miles from India to the UK to demand justice. As part of a gruelling round of meetings, Harshita’s mum, Sudesh Kumari, dad Satbir Singh and sister Sonia met with MP for Corby Lee Barron.
Mr Barron welcomed the family to the Houses of Parliament where Mr Barron had already raised Harshita’s case in the Commons in the days after she was killed.