New update in Harshita Brella murder case nearly one year on from her death
Police tell us the suspect, her husband, remains on the run as they issue new information.
Nearly a year after Corby woman Harshita Brella was found dead in a car boot in East London, Northamptonshire Police have provided a new update.
In a statement shared with us they say Harshita's belongings have been returned to her family, after Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Johnny Campbell, went out to India to meet with her relatives.
He says it was a privilege to go and see them, and return "the personal belongings of their much loved and much missed daughter and sister."
Her husband, 24-year-old Pankaj Lamba, remains wanted for her murder.
Police believe he might be hiding in India and have informed the relevant authorities there about the charges.
Officers here confirm that the investigation into Harshita's death remains active.
Detectives are working closely with her family to ensure they receive support and we're told they are committed to securing justice for them.
Northamptonshire Police update in full:
"As we remember Harshita Brella on the first anniversary of her death, our thoughts very much remain with her family and all who loved her.
"Northamptonshire Police has provided family liaison support to Harshita’s family throughout the past year and in July, I was privileged to travel to India to meet with family members and return the personal belongings of their much loved and much missed daughter and sister.
"Twelve months ago, on November 14, 2024, a murder investigation was launched after 24-year-old Harshita was found dead in a vehicle in the Ilford area of London after being reported missing from her home in Corby, Northamptonshire. In March 2025, the Crown Prosecution Service decided that 24-year-old Pankaj Lamba, Harshita’s husband, should be charged with murder in relation to her death.
"This is an exceptionally complex case and with criminal proceedings now active in the UK, we are unable to go into detail about the investigation at this time. However, we can confirm that the Indian authorities have been made aware through the appropriate channels of the charging decision.
"The investigation is very much ongoing and we remain as determined as ever to bring the person responsible for Harshita's death to justice.
"Once again, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Harshita's family, and we will continue to offer support as the investigation and our work to secure justice for Harshita and her family continues."
Appeals to the public for information ongoing
Police have particularly encouraged people who were in Corby between 6pm and 9pm on Sunday, November 10, 2024, specifically in the area around the Corby Boating Lake, Cottingham Road and Westcott Way, to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact the police or submit footage through the specified online portal.
Tribute to Harshita
At the time of her murder, Harshita’s family issued the following tribute to their daughter and sister:
“Harshita, you left this world but you are still with us in our hearts and will always be there.
“We will never forget you till our last breath. Always stay with us.
“We miss you in every very moment of our life.”