Sheku Bayoh Inquiry
OngoingInquiry 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.
Timeline (9) Click to expand
Lord Advocate announced a public inquiry into the death of Sheku Bayoh.
Lord Bracadale appointed as Chair of the Inquiry.
Inquiry formally began examining events surrounding Mr Bayoh's death.
SourcePublic evidence hearings commenced in Edinburgh.
Additional hearing dates held in October 2024.
Lord Bracadale resigned as Chair, stating the best interests of the inquiry would be served by a new chair; counsel to the inquiry also departed.
SourceLord Colbeck took up appointment as Chair, announced by Scottish Ministers on 14 January 2026.
SourceThe Chair invited written closing submissions from core participants, with no oral closing hearing; the completion deadline was later set at 9 October 2026.
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