Northamptonshire Police officers to face misconduct proceedings over death of woman
Four officers involved in Harshita Brella’s domestic abuse case to face misconduct panel
Last updated 24th Nov 2025
Four Northamptonshire Police officers are to face misconduct proceedings following an investigation into their handling of domestic abuse allegations reported by Harshita Brella, a woman later found dead in a car boot.
Ms Brella reported to Northamptonshire Police on 29th August 2024, stating that she had suffered domestic abuse at the hands of her then-husband, Pankaj Lamba.
The suspect was arrested on 3rd September and released on police bail with conditions, including orders not to contact his wife. He was also issued with a Domestic Violence Protection Order.
Ms Brella’s body was discovered in the boot of a Vauxhall Corsa in Ilford, Essex, on 14th November 2024. It is suspected that she was strangled on the evening of 10th November in Corby, Northamptonshire.
The IOPC launched an independent investigation on 20th November 2024, following a referral from Northamptonshire Police. The investigation examined the actions of two detective constables and two senior officers responsible for supervising the case.
The IOPC concluded that the two detectives have a case to answer for gross misconduct, citing failures to appropriately review the case, set investigative actions, seek supervisory advice, or keep Ms Brella adequately informed.
It also found a misconduct case to answer for a sergeant and a chief inspector with supervisory responsibility. The officers were found to have potentially breached police standards of professional behaviour in areas including 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.”
He added: “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 IOPC also identified areas of potential learning for the force’s Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit, which are currently under review.
Northamptonshire Police will now organise the disciplinary proceedings.
In a statement Assistant Chief Constable Emma James from Northamptonshire Police said:
"We note the findings in the IOPC report following their investigation into the Force's contact with Harshita Brella and her husband Pankaj Lamba, prior to Harshita’s death in November 2024.
"We will review their report thoroughly to understand the issues raised and will seek to implement any recommendations that improve the quality of service we provide.
"As a result of the IOPC investigation, misconduct proceedings are now underway in relation to four Northamptonshire Police officers, and as such it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time.
"The murder investigation into Harshita's death is ongoing, and our thoughts remain with her family and friends as we continue to work hard to bring the offender for Harshita’s murder to justice.”
A manhunt remains ongoing for Mr Lamba, who is believed to have fled the UK for India.