Northants Police officers have case to answer over Harshita Brella domestic abuse investigation

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

Harshita Brella reported to Northamptonshire Police on 29 August last year 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.

Ms Brella’s body was found in the boot of a Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, Essex, on 14 November. It’s suspected she was strangled in Corby, Northamptonshire, on the evening of November 10.

A manhunt remains ongoing to locate Mr Lamba who is believed to have left the UK for India.

The IOPC began an independent investigation on 20 November 2024 following a referral from Northamptonshire Police.

Our investigation has considered the actions of two detectives who were assigned to the domestic abuse investigation, plus two more senior officers who had supervisory responsibility.

Having examined all available evidence, it is our opinion the two Detective Constables have a case to answer for gross misconduct.

We believe a police disciplinary panel could find the officers didn’t appropriately review the case, set investigative actions, seek supervisory advice, or keep Ms Brella sufficiently updated.

Our investigation also concluded there is a misconduct case to answer for a Sergeant and Chief Inspector over their supervision and review of the domestic abuse investigation and associated risk assessment for Ms Brella.

It is our view the officers may potentially have breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to duties and responsibilities.

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.”

All parties have been informed of our decisions, and it will now be for Northamptonshire Police to organise disciplinary proceedings.

Our investigation also identified areas of potential learning for Northamptonshire Police, which are currently being reviewed, in relation to its Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit.