A man has been charged with the murder of his wife who was found dead in the boot of a car in east London last year.
Pankaj Lamba, 23, has been charged with the murder of Harshita Brella, whose body was discovered in a silver Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, east London, on November 15.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said Lamba, 23, is also accused of two counts of rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behaviour.
He has been charged by the CPS in his absence and is not in UK custody.
Northamptonshire Police previously said they believed Ms Brella was strangled in Corby on the evening of November 10 before her body was driven to Ilford the next day.
Lamba, formerly of Sturton Walk, Corby, is reported to have left the UK after Ms Brella's death.
Samantha Shallow from the Crown Prosecution Service said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has reviewed a file of evidence submitted by the Northamptonshire Police, and has authorised a charge of murder against 23-year-old Pankaj Lamba in relation to Harshita Brella’s death.
“Lamba, formerly of Sturton Walk, Corby, is also charged with two counts of rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behaviour.”
“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings are active and defendants have the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell added: “We are committed to securing justice for Harshita and her family and continue to offer our support at this difficult time.
“It remains an active investigation and as such, there continue to be aspects of the case that we are unable to comment on at this time. We would urge all parties to respect the judicial process to ensure the integrity of the proceedings.”
The charges were laid at Northamptonshire Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
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