THE police watchdog has confirmed it is investigating West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester forces following the death of Kulsuma Akter in Bradford. 

Ms Akter, 27, was stabbed several times in Westgate, in the city centre, at the junction with Drewton Road on the afternoon of April 6.

She was taken to Bradford Royal Infirmary where she later died from her injuries - prompting a murder investigation.

West Yorkshire Police and Greater Manchester Police both subsequently confirmed they had referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) as officers had contact with Ms Akter prior to her death.

The IOPC last week said it had received both referrals - and today the watchdog told the Telegraph & Argus it had launched an investigation.

A spokesperson for the IOPC said: "Following referrals from West Yorkshire Police and Greater Manchester Police on April 8 after Ms Akter was fatally stabbed on April 6, we started an independent investigation.

"After carefully assessing the available information, we began an independent investigation into both referrals on April 9 due to the prior contact the forces had with Ms Akter prior to her death.

"Our thoughts remain with Ms Akter's loved ones and all those affected by her tragic death."

An inquest into Ms Akter's death was opened at Bradford Coroners' Court earlier today. 

Senior coroner Martin Fleming told the court that Ms Akter had died "under tragic circumstances".

She was pushing her baby in a pram at the time of the incident, Mr Fleming said.

The baby is safe and was not harmed, West Yorkshire Police confirmed. 

Mr Fleming suspended the inquest pending the outcome of criminal court proceedings.

Habibur Masum, 25, is charged with murdering Ms Akter.

Masum, of Leamington Avenue, Burnley, is also charged with possession of a bladed article.

He appeared at Bradford Crown Court on Friday via video link from HMP Leeds.

Masum spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.

He was not asked to enter pleas to either of the charges.

Judge Jonathan Rose remanded Masum into custody and set a provisional trial date of November 18 at the same court, with a time estimate of two weeks.

A plea and trial preparation hearing will take place on May 10.

Many tributes have been paid to Ms Akter since her death.

A vigil in her memory will be held in Centenary Square, Bradford, at 3pm on April 27.