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Watchdog examines murder inquiry Watchdog probes murder inquiry
(about 1 hour later)
The murder of a woman whose body was found wrapped in carpet has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC). The murder of a woman whose body was found wrapped in carpet is to be investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).
Gwent Police said Bobbie Stokoe, 23, had been reported missing and its officers had been trying to find her.Gwent Police said Bobbie Stokoe, 23, had been reported missing and its officers had been trying to find her.
She was found dead at wasteland at Trevethin, Pontypool, on Wednesday.She was found dead at wasteland at Trevethin, Pontypool, on Wednesday.
Darrell Smith, 40, has appeared at Caerphilly Magistrates' Court charged with her murder. He was remanded in custody.Darrell Smith, 40, has appeared at Caerphilly Magistrates' Court charged with her murder. He was remanded in custody.
He will next appear at Newport Crown Court.He will next appear at Newport Crown Court.
The IPCC, which was called in by Gwent Police, said it is currently assessing the situation and will make a statement later about what it is going to do. The IPCC said it is to independently investigate Gwent Police's actions prior to the discovery of Ms Stokoe's body.
The police watchdog said Gwent Police referred the case to them on 19 August.
It said the force had received a telephone call on 18 August and three subsequent calls expressing concern for Ms Stokoe's welfare.
'Examine actions'
IPCC Commissioner for Wales Tom Davies said: "I would like to extend my condolences to Bobbie's family and friends. The IPCC is in the process of contacting her family to explain our involvement.
"An IPCC senior investigator has completed an assessment and we have decided that an independent investigation should be carried out to examine the actions taken by Gwent Police in response to calls made expressing concern at Bobbie's safety.
"The police murder investigation will take primacy at this stage and I would like to assure Bobbie's family and the public that the IPCC will ensure that its investigation will not impede the police criminal investigation."
Neighbours said Ms Stokoe lived in a flat near where her body was found by two men in undergrowth near Beeches Road.Neighbours said Ms Stokoe lived in a flat near where her body was found by two men in undergrowth near Beeches Road.