UK police launch international manhunt for husband of woman found dead in car boot
Police in the UK have launched an international manhunt for a man who is suspected of murdering his wife and hiding her body in the boot of a car.
The body of 24-year-old Corby resident Harshita Brella was found stuffed into the boot of a car on Brisbane Road in Ilford, East London on Thursday (14 November), prompting the launch of a murder inquiry.
Northamptonshire Police have named Harshita's husband Pankaj Lamba as the prime suspect.
Speaking at a press conference in Kettering, Chief Inspector Paul Cash said: "Inquiries lead us to suspect that Harshita was murdered in Northamptonshire earlier this month by her husband Pankaj Lamba.
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“We suspect Lamba transported Harshita’s body from Northamptonshire to Ilford by car. We believe he has now fled the country."
Police had been contacted the day before her body was found by a member of the public who was concerned about Harshita's welfare, with officers visiting her home in Skegness Walk and not being able to find anyone.
A missing person investigation led to the discovery of the car and the 24-year-old's body hidden in the boot.
A police spokesperson previously confirmed that Harshita Brella had been targeted by domestic violence, and in September of this year Northampton Magistrates’ Court had granted her a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO).
The 28 day order reportedly banned the person who committed the violence against her from visiting the woman at her workplace, and from harassing or threatening her or attempting to get others to do the same.
Formal charges against the perpetrator of the violence were not recorded by the court and they were subsequently released, though ordered to pay full costs.
The police investigation into the 24-year-old's death continues with over 60 detectives now working on the case, with Chief Inspector Cash appealing to the public for any further information.
"If you saw anything suspicious in the past week or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us," he said.
“We would always rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing as opposed to not receiving it all.”
Extra police patrols will be carried out in Corby to reassure the public, though officers believe there is not a wider risk.
Anyone who may have information is asked to call police on 101 quoting Operation Westcott, or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Information can also be submitted online at mipp.police.uk.
Joe Harker