Watchdog Demands Action Over 'Harrowing' Domestic Abuse Case
A police watchdog has ruled that four officers from Northamptonshire Police should face disciplinary proceedings for their handling of a domestic abuse case involving a 24-year-old woman later found dead in a car boot.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigated the force's response after Harshita Brella reported suffering domestic abuse from her then-husband, Pankaj Lamba, on 29 August.
Timeline of a Tragedy
Ms Brella's body was discovered inside a Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, east London, on 14 November last year. The IOPC stated she is suspected of having been strangled in Corby, Northamptonshire, four days prior to this discovery.
Following her report, the suspect was arrested on 3 September and released on police bail. Conditions were imposed, including not to contact his wife, and he was issued with a Domestic Violence Protection Order.
A manhunt for Pankaj Lamba remains active, as he is believed to have fled the UK and is now in India.
Systemic Failures Identified
The IOPC's investigation focused on the actions of two detective constables assigned to the case and two more senior officers with supervisory roles.
The watchdog concluded that the two detectives have a case to answer for gross misconduct. A sergeant and a chief inspector were also found to have a case to answer for misconduct.
Investigators believe a disciplinary panel could find the officers failed in their duties by not appropriately reviewing the case, setting investigative actions, seeking supervisory advice, or keeping Ms Brella sufficiently updated on the progress of her case.
The IOPC added that the officers may have breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to their duties and responsibilities.
A 'Harrowing Case' and a Search for Justice
IOPC director of engagement, Derrick Campbell, described it as a "harrowing case in which a young woman was killed not long after arriving in the UK to start a new life."
"Our thoughts remain with Ms Brella's family and friends as they seek justice for what happened," he added.
The IOPC's investigation scrutinised the force's investigation strategy, actions taken, communication with the victim, and safeguarding considerations.
Mr Campbell confirmed that after a thorough evidence review, the decision was made that the four officers should face disciplinary proceedings. It will now be for a police disciplinary panel to determine whether the allegations are proven.
The IOPC has passed its findings to Northamptonshire Police, which is now responsible for organising the misconduct proceedings. The watchdog also identified areas of potential learning for the force's domestic abuse investigation unit.
