Police Scotland have been accused of “breathtaking hypocrisy” after refusing to meet the grieving family of Kirkcaldy man Sheku Bayoh.
Chief Constable Sir Stephen House also declined a meeting with the town’s MP, saying it could potentially jeopardise the outcome of an investigation into Mr Bayoh’s death.
This is despite the fact Sir Stephen met the officers involved in detaining the 31-year-old before his death.
MP Roger Mullin is now seeking a meeting with the justice secretary to discuss the implications of Police Scotland’s conduct.
Mr Bayoh died of suspected asphyxiation on Sunday May 3 after he was detained by police who suspected him of carrying a knife.
The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner is investigating the circumstances.
Mr Mullin said it was unacceptable that the police had taken three weeks to reply to his urgent request for a meeting.
Referring to the fact the chief constable had spoken to the officers involved, Bayoh family solicitor Aamer Anwar said: “It smacks of double standards and breathtaking hypocrisy…”
