Police Misconduct Inquiry Launched in Harshita Brella Case

Four Northamptonshire Police officers are now facing misconduct proceedings over their handling of domestic abuse allegations made by 24 year old Harshita Brella, who was later found dead in the boot of a car in east London. Her death has raised serious questions about how her earlier reports of abuse were managed and whether more effective action could have protected her.

Ms Brella, from Corby, was discovered inside a Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford in November 2024, around one hundred miles from her home. Police believe she died from strangulation on the evening of November 10 in Corby. Her body was found four days later during a major search effort.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct launched an investigation after Northamptonshire Police referred itself, a required step because officers had previous contact with Ms Brella before her death. Assistant Chief Constable Emma James confirmed that misconduct proceedings are under way for four officers following the findings of the IOPC.

A murder charge has been authorised against her husband, 23 year old Pankaj Lamba, who police believe fled to India. A manhunt to locate him remains ongoing. The IOPC report detailed that Ms Brella contacted police on August 29, 2024 to report domestic abuse by Mr Lamba. He was arrested on September 3 and later released on bail with instructions not to contact her. He was also given a domestic violence protection order.

The IOPC said its review examined the conduct of two detectives assigned to investigate the abuse report and two senior officers responsible for oversight. Investigators concluded that the two detective constables have a case to answer for gross misconduct. They found evidence suggesting the detectives did not properly review the case, set clear investigative actions or seek supervisory advice. The report also noted that communication with Ms Brella was inadequate and did not meet expected standards.

In addition, the investigation found a misconduct case to answer for a sergeant and a chief inspector who supervised the investigation. According to the IOPC, the actions of those officers may have breached professional standards relating to duties, responsibilities and risk assessment.

IOPC director of engagement Derrick Campbell said the investigation closely examined how Northamptonshire Police responded to Ms Brella’s disclosure of domestic abuse. He explained that the inquiry focused on the force’s investigative decisions, safeguarding obligations and communication with her in the weeks before her death. After reviewing the evidence, the IOPC determined that disciplinary proceedings were necessary for all four officers involved.

It will now be the responsibility of Northamptonshire Police to arrange and conduct the disciplinary hearings, where an independent panel will determine whether the allegations of misconduct are proven.