Police Officers Under Investigation After Alleged Mishandling of Domestic Abuse Report

Family of Murdered Wife Call for Justice as 4 Police Officers Face Investigation Probe.

Four police officers are facing investigation over how they handled a domestic abuse report concerning Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old woman believed to have been murdered by her husband, Pankaj Lamba.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed that disciplinary notices have been served to the officers involved. Two officers are being investigated for gross misconduct, while the other two face allegations of misconduct over their supervision of the case.

What Happened?

Detectives suspect that Ms Brella was strangled by her husband on 10 November in Corby, Northamptonshire. Her body was discovered four days later in the boot of a silver Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, east London, approximately 100 miles from where she was last seen.

Mr Lamba, 23, has since been charged with murder, two counts of rape, sexual assault, and controlling or coercive behaviour. However, authorities believe he has fled the UK.

Previous Police Interaction

Ms Brella had reported domestic abuse in late August, leading to Mr Lamba’s arrest on 3 September. He was subsequently released on conditional bail and placed under a domestic violence protection order, which expired on 1 October.

Despite these measures, it’s alleged that the police failed to properly investigate the report or adequately support Ms Brella.

Derrick Campbell, an IOPC director, explained that the notices issued against the officers are part of an ongoing inquiry. While the disciplinary notices indicate serious concerns, they do not automatically lead to formal proceedings.

Family Seeking Justice

Ms Brella’s family, particularly her mother Sudesh Kumari, has been vocal in seeking justice. Speaking from her home in Delhi, she expressed her determination to see those responsible held accountable.

Further developments have also occurred in India, where Mr Lamba’s parents were arrested on charges of causing Ms Brella’s death through cruelty. Indian authorities are pursuing the case under their local “dowry death” law, following a complaint from the victim’s family.

Conclusion

This tragic case has raised serious concerns about how domestic abuse reports are handled. The ongoing IOPC investigation will determine whether the officers’ actions amounted to misconduct. Meanwhile, Ms Brella’s loved ones continue to call for justice.

How we can Help

If you have any questions regarding domestic abuse offences or any other aspect of sentencing guidelines, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0161 243 0299 or email us.