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Sheku Bayoh Inquiry

Ongoing
Chair Lord Colbeck Judge / Judiciary
Established 30 Nov 2020
Commissioned by Scottish Government

Inquiry into the death of Sheku Bayoh following contact with Police Scotland officers in Kirkcaldy on 3 May 2015. Lord Bracadale (original chair) resigned 21 October 2025 after disclosure of five private meetings with the Bayoh family; the entire legal team also resigned. Lord Colbeck appointed 14 January 2026 as new chair; takes up post 2 March 2026. 122 days of oral evidence already taken. Restart expected March 2026.

5 years, 3 months Duration (ongoing)
£26.2m Total Cost
Inquiry Website Terms of Reference
12 Nov 2019
Inquiry Announced

Lord Advocate announced a public inquiry into the death of Sheku Bayoh.

12 Nov 2019
Chair Appointed

Lord Bracadale appointed as Chair of the Inquiry.

30 Nov 2020
Inquiry Begins

Inquiry formally began examining events surrounding Mr Bayoh's death.

Source
10 May 2022
Evidential Hearings Begin

Public evidence hearings commenced in Edinburgh.

30 Jun 2024
Main Hearings Conclude

Final main block of evidence hearings concluded.

Source
09 Oct 2024
Additional Hearings

Additional hearing dates held in October 2024.

24 Oct 2025
Inquiry Disrupted

Lord Bracadale and entire legal team resigned. Future timeline uncertain.