UK Police Officers Face Disciplinary Action in Harshita Brella Murder Probe
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Four Northamptonshire Police officers in the UK are facing disciplinary action for allegedly mishandling domestic abuse complaints made by Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old Indian woman who was murdered in 2024. According to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the officers failed to adequately assess and investigate the case, leading to a delay in protecting Brella from her abusive husband, Pankaj Lamba. Brella had approached the police in Corby, Northamptonshire, in August 2023, reporting abuse by Lamba. Despite being arrested on bail with strict conditions, Lamba was able to flee to India, where he is believed to be hiding. Brella's body was later discovered in a car in east London. The IOPC investigation found that two detective constables may have committed gross misconduct for failing to properly assess the case, while a sergeant and a chief inspector are accused of inadequate supervision. Northamptonshire Police will now initiate disciplinary procedures against the officers. Meanwhile, Lamba faces charges of murder, rape, and coercive behavior in the UK. Authorities in India have been alerted to his whereabouts, with reported sightings in Delhi and Gurgaon. Brella's family continues to push for justice, with her sister, Sonia Dabas, speaking out about the abuse her sister suffered. The case has raised concerns about institutional shortcomings within the Northamptonshire Police's Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit. The IOPC has flagged potential issues with the force's handling of domestic abuse cases, which will be investigated further. Brella's family is seeking help from the Indian government to bring Lamba to justice. Her sister has vowed to fight for justice until the case is resolved.
