Kent Police Slammed Over ‘Insensitive’ Tweets About Woman’s Death
Kent Police are under fire after posting inappropriate tweets celebrating their forensic work on Azra Kemal’s tragic death. The young woman fell from a dual carriageway bridge in July 2020. The tweets included a high-five GIF from Top Gun and the hashtag #crackingbitofkit, praising police drone efforts. Azra’s heartbroken mother, Nevres Kemal, branded the posts “horrendous.” She slammed the police, questioning their morals and professionalism.
Family Furious at Police Celebrating On Day of Tragedy
The offending tweet went live on the day Azra died, saluting officers for identifying her within 90 minutes. Nevres Kemal couldn’t believe her eyes. “I could not believe that professional police officers would high-five themselves and pat themselves on the back, on the back of my daughter’s demise,” she said. The family say the tone was shockingly callous and disrespectful.
Investigation Closed Too Quickly, Families Claim
Kent Police insisted there were no suspicious circumstances. But the family was told investigations were ongoing. Despite this, the case was closed within 24 hours. The man travelling with Azra, initially a suspect, was released without charges. The family believe crucial forensic evidence was lost due to the premature closure — leaving questions unanswered about how Azra ended up dead.
Calls for Justice and Proper Forensic Checks
Kate Ellis from the Centre for Women’s Justice supports the family’s fight. She called the rapid closure of the murder inquiry “inadequate” and demanded a thorough forensic post-mortem to check for signs of prior harm.
An independent review by Essex Police agreed the case closure was rushed. They suggest suspect release under investigation would have been wiser. The review also backed a forensic post-mortem to clarify key details.
Kent Police Defend Their Work Amid Reopened Probe
Kent Police say their investigation was “comprehensive and thorough.” A spokesperson confirmed no suspicious circumstances were found. They added the investigation continued to support the coroner’s inquest, which ruled Azra’s death was misadventure.
Despite this, complaints over the investigation’s handling led to an independent review, which deemed the police work acceptable. However, after a judicial review appeal, part of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) probe has been reopened. The offensive tweets have since been removed, and another police force is now assessing the complaint.
Police Tactlessness Sparks Outrage
This episode highlights the urgent need for police to handle tragic cases with sensitivity. Angry families demand justice and respect, reminding forces that how they communicate matters — especially in grief.
