Police Failures Investigated After Woman Found Dead in Car Boot

Harshita Brella reported domestic abuse months before her suspected murder, prompting scrutiny of Northamptonshire Police's actions.

Harshita Brella, 24, was found dead in the boot of a car in Ilford, East London, on November 14, days after she was believed to have been strangled in Corby, Northamptonshire.
Her husband, Pankaj Lamba, 23, is the prime suspect in the case and is currently the subject of an international manhunt.
Ms. Brella had reported domestic abuse in August, leading to Lamba’s arrest on September 3; he was released on conditional bail and given a domestic violence protection order.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating Northamptonshire Police's handling of Ms. Brella’s domestic abuse report and subsequent actions.
Ms. Brella’s family has criticized police for alleged failings in protecting her, stating that fear and lack of support drove her back to her husband.