Bayoh death probe now at ‘vital’ phase

T andhe inquiry into the death of Sheku Bayoh is moving forward with “focus determination”, according to its chairman.

Lord Bracadale gave an update on progress in the independent public inquiry into the death of the Fife man while in police custody in a Kirkcaldy street in 2015.

In a video message five months after it opened, he said the inquiry will examine the cause of death, post-incident management, liaison with the family and race.

Lord Bracadale said: “I am acutely aware that almost six years have passed since the death of Sheku Bayoh and, consequently, a lengthy period of time has elapsed without his family receiving answers to fundamental questions.

“I want to assure them, and all who have interest in the inquiry, that we are moving forward with focus and determination.”

The framework to act as a roadmap for the inquiry’s investigation is being formulated and “will continue to evolve and be modified as more evidence is collated”.

He added: “I consider that this phase of the inquiry is vitally important.

“It lays the foundation for later stages, including public hearings.”

Lord Bracadale repeated his earlier call for those who believe they have relevant information to make contact via its website.

The statement, which can be viewed and read on the inquiry website, highlighted the importance of collaboration with core participants and said there had been constructive meetings with their representatives.

Mr Bayoh died in May 2015 after an incident in the street involving Police Scotland officers.

They claim they were arresting him when he became violent but the exact circumstances of his death remain clouded.

The inquiry opened on November 30 last year.

Lord Bracadale confirmed public hearings will be held at Capital House in central Edinburgh.

However it is not possible

at present to say when the hearings will take place.

Further updates on arrangements for the hearings, including how members of the public can attend, will be published on the website in due course.

The hearings will be streamed on the website and Inquiry Youtube channel.

INQUIRY: Sheku Bayoh died while under arrest in Kirkcaldy six years ago.