URGENT UPDATE: The stalled public inquiry into the tragic death of Sheku Bayoh while in police custody is now costing taxpayers an alarming £200,000 each month. This costly investigation has yet to hear any evidence, raising significant concerns among stakeholders and the public alike.
The inquiry, which has been running without hearings, is under scrutiny as it continues to drain public funds. Since its inception, the Scottish Government has invested millions in a process that many feel lacks transparency and urgency. Despite repeated calls for accountability, the inquiry remains in limbo, drawing ire from human rights advocates, including the Human Rights Commission.
As of October 2023, there has been no progress in the hearings, prompting intense backlash from the community and advocates for justice. The inquiry was initially launched to address the circumstances surrounding Bayoh’s death in May 2015, a case that has become emblematic of broader issues regarding custody deaths in Scotland.
In a recent statement, the inquiry chair, Professor John McKendrick, emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation but did not provide a timeline for when hearings might commence. “The ongoing delays are unacceptable,” he stated, reflecting the frustrations of families affected by custody deaths.
The rising costs of the inquiry have also led to questions about the management of public resources. Critics argue that the funds could be better allocated to support community initiatives or improve policing practices. Local residents have expressed their disappointment, stating they feel the inquiry is failing to deliver the justice and closure that Bayoh’s family deserves.
Officials from Police Scotland have been drawn into the controversy, with calls for more transparency regarding their involvement in the inquiry process. Community leaders are demanding that the inquiry be expedited to restore public trust and deliver justice.
As this situation develops, the urgency for a resolution grows. The inquiry’s lack of progress is a stark reminder of the challenges facing accountability in cases of police conduct. Residents and advocates alike are left wondering: when will justice be served for Sheku Bayoh?
The public deserves answers. As the inquiry continues to incur costs without progress, stakeholders are preparing to escalate their demands for immediate action. This issue is far from over, and it remains critical to watch how officials will respond to mounting pressure in the coming days.
