In a heart-wrenching discovery, the body of 24-year-old Harshita Brella was found inside the boot of a vehicle on Bristane Road, Ilford, in the early hours of Thursday morning. The grim finding has sparked a murder investigation by Northamptonshire Police, who believe Brella may have been attacked by someone she knew.
Police Appeal for Information
Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell from the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit has stated that detectives are working relentlessly to establish the circumstances surrounding Brella’s death, including the precise location and timeframe in which the tragedy occurred.
“Although we believe Harshita was attacked by someone known to her, we are keeping an open mind and would appeal to anyone who knew her to contact us with any relevant information they may have.”
– Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell
Campbell emphasized the importance of receiving any information, no matter how small, from the public. He reassured that the police would rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing than not receive it at all.
Previous Police Contact
Northamptonshire Police have also made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous contact between the force and Brella, who resided in Skegness Walk, Corby. However, no further details about the nature of this prior contact have been disclosed.
Community Concern and Extra Patrols
Superintendent Steve Freeman of Northamptonshire Police revealed that the initial concern was raised by a member of the public who contacted the police on Wednesday, worried about Brella’s welfare. This led to fast-track inquiries that tragically culminated in the discovery of her body in London.
While authorities believe this to be a targeted incident with no wider risk to the public, extra patrols will be carried out in Corby in the coming days to provide reassurance to the community.
Heartfelt Condolences and Call for Justice
DCI Campbell extended his heartfelt condolences to everyone who loved Harshita Brella, emphasizing the absolute tragedy of a young woman’s life being cut short in such a manner. He vowed to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice for Brella and her loved ones.
“She was a young woman in her early 20s with her whole life ahead of her and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way.”
– Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with potentially relevant information to come forward. They can contact the authorities by calling 101 and quoting incident number 24000678713, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Information can also be submitted online at mipp.police.uk.
The shocking discovery of Harshita Brella’s body has left the community reeling, as they grapple with the loss of a young life under such troubling circumstances. As the police work tirelessly to piece together the events leading to this heartbreaking tragedy, the public holds out hope that those responsible will be brought to justice, and that Brella’s family and friends will find the strength to cope with their unimaginable grief.
