Swiss Authorities Investigate Death of Nigerian Man, Michael Ekemezie in Police

Swiss authorities have opened a formal investigation into the death of 39-year-old Nigerian national, Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie, who died in police custody in Lausanne on May 25, 2025, under circumstances his family has described as deeply suspicious and traumatic.

Originally from Awka North in Anambra State, Nigeria, Ekemezie reportedly died less than an hour after he was detained during what Swiss police have called a routine drug-related check. Eyewitness reports and preliminary accounts allege that during the arrest, Ekemezie cried out repeatedly, shouting, “You’re hurting me,” as officers restrained him with force. He later collapsed and was pronounced dead at the police station.

On May 30, Ekemezie’s family—represented by renowned human rights lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor—submitted a formal petition to the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria, demanding an immediate and transparent probe into the events surrounding his death.

In a response dated June 4, Chargé d’Affaires, Mr. Siamak Rouhani, confirmed on behalf of the Swiss Embassy that the Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office in Lausanne has initiated an official investigation. However, citing Swiss data protection laws and the principle of separation of powers, the Embassy declined to release further information on the case.

Speaking for the family, Ejiofor criticized the opacity surrounding the incident.

“This is not just a legal matter—it is a human tragedy. A mother grieves, a family mourns, and a nation watches with bated breath,” he said.
“We demand a thorough, transparent, and expedited investigation. Justice must not be concealed behind bureaucratic walls.
Michael Ekemezie’s life mattered. His name must not fade. His story must not be buried.”

The family has further appealed to the Swiss Government to work cooperatively with Nigerian authorities and legal representatives, calling on the international community to demand transparency and accountability.

Meanwhile, Swiss authorities, in a statement cited by AFP, claimed that Ekemezie attempted to flee during a police check related to suspected drug activity. He was reportedly apprehended and taken to the police station, where he suddenly became unwell and died despite the intervention of emergency medical services.

“After the situation calmed down, the man was taken to the police station for questioning. During the intervention, he became unwell and died shortly before 10:00 p.m.,” the statement read.

In Nigeria, both the Nigerian Embassy in Bern and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) have pledged to follow up on the case. NIDCOM, in a separate statement on May 30, confirmed that it has launched its own investigation and is in active communication with Swiss authorities and the Ekemezie family.

In its petition, the family urged the Swiss government to uphold its long-standing international reputation as a champion of human rights and the rule of law by ensuring a swift, impartial, and transparent investigation into the tragic death of Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie.