A public inquiry has been launched into the death of a man who died in police custody

A public inquiry has been launched into the death of a man who died in police custody. In May 2015, Sheku Bayoh, 31, died after being restrained by police officers who were responding to a call in Kirkcaldy, Fife. Bayoh worked for British Gas and was a father of two sons - a then four-month-old and three-year-old.

The victim's family lawyer Aamer Anwar, said: "The Bayoh family have described Sheku as Scotland's George Floyd, the only difference they believe is that despite seven years of struggle, the Bayohs have never seen justice and are yet to hear the whole truth". Anwar stated that Mr Bayoh 'was face down on the ground in less than 50 seconds' and was restrained by up to seven officers as he was handcuffed.

He added that Bayoh died soon after he had ankle and leg restraints put on him."His body was covered with over 24 separate lacerations, cuts, bruises, and a broken rib," Mr Anwar said.Mr Bayoh was allegedly empty-handed at the time of his arrest. His family's statement, which was read by lawyer Anwar, said: "Taking the knee and Black Lives Matter will mean nothing if Scotland fails to support justice for Sheku."We are always told that justice is colour-blind, but this inquiry must not be blind to the issue of colour".

Deborah Coles, director of justice charity Inquest, stated: "Those entrusted with the role of policing must be subject to accountability before the law. The disproportionate use of force against black people by police, in the UK and internationally, is well documented."Mr Anwar said the public inquiry will begin two years after the Bayoh family were told that 'not one police officer would face charges' for Mr Bayoh's death.