Neighbour heard ‘heated row’ at Harshita Brella’s home on day before body found

Neighbour reports hearing a ‘heated row’ at Harshita Brella’s home the day before her body was discovered.
A neighbour living next to Harshita Brella in Corby has alleged that she heard a heated argument between a man and a woman at Brella’s home on the same day the police were alerted about concerns for her welfare. Kelly Philp, a 41-year-old single mother, stated that she overheard the altercation and described the woman’s voice as sounding frightened. Philp mentioned hearing banging and arguing in a different language coming from Brella’s home, which made her believe the situation was intense. Despite the commotion, Philp did not call the authorities, assuming it was a domestic dispute. Later, in the early hours of Saturday, she heard loud slamming and men arguing in another language, which raised her suspicions further. Philp shared her feelings of vulnerability and shock at the tragic loss of the young woman. The residence, believed to be a house of multiple occupation (HMO), was reportedly occupied by around five individuals, including Brella, who had been living there for approximately one year.
Police launch a murder investigation after discovering Harshita Brella’s body.
Following concerns for Harshita Brella’s welfare, the police visited her residence on Skegness Walk in Corby. However, when she could not be located, a missing person inquiry was initiated, leading to the grim discovery of her body in the boot of a car on Brisbane Road in Ilford, nearly 96 miles from her home. A post-mortem conducted at Leicester Royal Infirmary confirmed that Brella had been murdered. Subsequently, it was revealed that Pankaj Lamba, Brella’s husband, was suspected of her murder and is currently wanted by the police. According to authorities, Lamba, who is believed to have fled the country, had been the subject of a Domestic Violence Protection Order secured by Brella in early September. The police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) concerning their interactions with Harshita Brella.
Residents express shock and sadness at the incident.
Neighbours of the Corby property where Harshita Brella resided described an increased police presence around the area on Brisbane Road. Some residents recalled disturbances at the property in the past, which were resolved previously, but noted that the house had been quieter recently. Shocked and saddened by the tragedy, neighbours shared their observations of police activity and expressed their sorrow over the situation. As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward and assist in the inquiry.
In conclusion, the tragic events surrounding the murder of Harshita Brella highlight the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of recognising and addressing signs of abuse within relationships. The impact of such incidents extends beyond the victim to the community, leaving neighbours and residents shocked and grieving. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and support for those experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse, emphasizing the role of law enforcement and the community in protecting individuals from harm.