Four officers should face misconduct proceedings over handling of allegations by woman later found dead in car boot, says police watchdog

Four police officers should face misconduct proceedings over their handling of abuse allegations reported by a woman later found dead in a car boot, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has said.

Harshita Brella, 24, was found dead inside a Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, east London, on 14 November last year, four days after she is suspected of having been strangled in Corby, Northamptonshire.

On 29 August, it was reported to Northamptonshire Police that she had suffered domestic abuse by her then husband Pankaj Lamba.

The suspect was arrested on 3 September and released on police bail, with conditions not to contact his wife, and issued with a Domestic Violence Protection Order.

A manhunt remains ongoing to locate Lamba who is believed to be in India after fleeing the UK.

The IOPC has concluded its investigation into the actions of two detectives who were assigned to the domestic abuse investigation, plus two more senior officers who had supervisory responsibility.

It found the two detective constables have a case to answer for gross misconduct.

The investigation also concluded there is a misconduct case to answer for a sergeant and chief inspector.

The IOPC said investigators believe a police disciplinary panel could find the officers did not appropriately review the case, set investigative actions, seek supervisory advice, or keep Ms Brella sufficiently updated.

'This is a harrowing case'

Officers may potentially have breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to duties and responsibilities, the watchdog added.

IOPC director of engagement Derrick Campbell said: "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.

"Our independent investigation examined Northamptonshire Police's response to the disclosure made by Ms Brella that she'd suffered domestic abuse.

"It has scrutinised their investigation strategy, actions taken, communication with the victim, and any safeguarding considerations.

"After a thorough review of the evidence, we have determined four officers should face disciplinary proceedings.

"It will be for a police disciplinary panel to determine whether the allegations are proven."

The investigation has also identified areas of potential learning for Northamptonshire Police in relation to its domestic abuse investigation unit, the watchdog said.

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