Watchdog Demands Action Over Domestic Abuse Case Failures
A police watchdog has ruled that four Northamptonshire Police officers should face misconduct proceedings over their handling of domestic abuse allegations made by Harshita Brella before she was found dead. The 24-year-old's body was discovered in the boot of a silver Vauxhall Corsa in Brisbane Road, Ilford, east London, on 14 November last year.
Timeline of a Tragedy
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) revealed that Ms Brella reported suffering domestic abuse at the hands of her widower, Pankaj Lamba, to Northamptonshire Police on 29 August last year. Lamba was arrested on 3 September and released on police bail with conditions not to contact his wife, alongside being issued with a domestic violence protection order.
Police believe Ms Brella was strangled in Corby on the evening of 10 November before her body was driven to Ilford the following day. A murder charge has been authorised against the 23-year-old Lamba, who is believed to have left the UK for India. An international manhunt continues for the suspect, who previously lived in Sturton Walk, Corby.
Systemic Failures Identified
The IOPC investigation, which began in November following a referral from the force, found that two detective constables assigned to the domestic abuse investigation have a case to answer for gross misconduct. Investigators believe a disciplinary panel could find the officers failed to appropriately review the case, set investigative actions, seek supervisory advice, or keep Ms Brella sufficiently updated.
The watchdog also determined that a sergeant and chief inspector have a misconduct case to answer regarding their supervision and review of the domestic abuse investigation and associated risk assessment for Ms Brella. These officers may have breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to their duties and responsibilities.
IOPC director of engagement Derrick Campbell stated: "This is 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 emphasised that their independent investigation scrutinised the force's investigation strategy, actions taken, communication with the victim, and safeguarding considerations. "After a thorough review of the evidence, we have determined four officers should face disciplinary proceedings," Campbell confirmed.
The IOPC has identified areas of potential learning for Northamptonshire Police, particularly within its domestic abuse investigation unit, which are currently being reviewed. It will now be for the force to organise the disciplinary proceedings against the four officers.
