Swiss Authorities Launch Probe Into Nigerian Man’s Death in Police Custody

Swiss authorities have opened an investigation into the death of Michael Ekemezie, a 39-year-old Nigerian man who died in police custody in Lausanne on May 25, 2025.

According to his family, Ekemezie, originally from Mgbakwu in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State, collapsed and died less than an hour after being detained during a routine police stop. His elder brother, Henry Ekemezie, stated that Michael was pursued by Swiss police officers, apprehended, handcuffed, and forcefully pinned face-down actions that allegedly led to his death.

A video widely shared on social media shows Ekemezie restrained on the ground by a Swiss officer, audibly crying out in pain and shouting, “You’re hurting me.”

Following the incident, the family, through their legal representative, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, submitted a formal petition to the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission on May 30. They demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into what they described as a deeply distressing and suspicious death.

The family lamented the silence from both the Swiss and Nigerian governments in the immediate aftermath of the incident.

On June 4, the Swiss Embassy responded through an official letter signed by Chargé d’Affaires Siamak Rouhani. The letter confirmed that the competent cantonal prosecutor’s office had launched a formal investigation into the circumstances of Ekemezie’s death.

The embassy, however, stated that due to the principles of separation of powers and strict data protection laws in Switzerland, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have access to details of ongoing cantonal proceedings and cannot intervene.

“The deceased’s family and its legal counselsupported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Bern are encouraged to liaise directly with the appropriate cantonal authorities,” the embassy said.

Reacting to the letter, the family, through Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, acknowledged receipt of the embassy’s response but reiterated their demand for a swift, transparent, and independent investigation.

“This is not merely a legal matter. It is a human tragedy. A mother grieves. A family mourns. A nation watches,” Ejiofor said in a statement.

“We urge the Swiss government and all relevant authorities to fully cooperate with Nigeria’s representatives. Justice must not be hidden behind bureaucracy. The truth must be uncovered, and accountability must be ensured.”