Fresh call for details of man’s death in custody

THE family of a man who died in police custody have made a fresh call for more details over the incident.

The appeal was made as a lawyer for the police officers involved in the incident in which Sheku Bayoh was detained called for the investigation to run its course.

Mr Bayoh was detained after an incident in which a policewoman was injured in Kirkcaldy, Fife, on May 3. He died a short time later.

The family’s lawyer, Aamer Anwar, said officers being investigated by the Police Investigation and Review Commissioner (PIRC) over the incident should be suspended pending the outcome, stressing there were “grave concerns” over events that involved a number of police.

Collette Bell, partner of Mr Bayoh, earlier claimed police officers had given her five different versions about what happened.

Questions raised include whether Mr Bayoh was armed with a knife, whether he was under the influence of drink and or drugs and whether there is any evidence for this claim.

Details of methods of restraint and any gas sprays used are also sought.

It is claimed CS and pepper sprays were used.

Ms Bell said earlier: “I want to know the whole truth of the circumstances surrounding his death so that one day I can explain to my son Isaac Bayoh, why he has had to grow up without his daddy.”

Peter Watson, lawyer for the police officers, said: “There is an investigation being conducted by PIRC.

“They are the statutory body charged with conducting this and will report to Police Scotland and the Crown Office.