Swiss Authorities Launch Investigation Into Death of Nigerian Man, Michael Ekemezie

 





The Swiss authorities have opened an investigation into the tragic death of Michael Ekemezie, a Nigerian man who reportedly died in Lausanne, Switzerland on May 25, 2025, after being restrained by police during a routine stop.

According to his family, the 39-year-old Ekemezie, a native of Mgbakwu in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State, collapsed and died less than an hour after he was taken into police custody.

His elder brother, Henry Ekemezie, revealed in an interview that Michael had been chased by the police during a routine check. After being apprehended, he was handcuffed and forcefully pinned face-down, an action the family believes directly led to his death.

A viral video shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) captured the moment an officer pinned Michael to the ground as he screamed, “You’re hurting me,” clearly in distress.

Following the incident, the family—through their legal representative, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor—petitioned both the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) on May 30, 2025, calling for a thorough investigation.

The family also expressed disappointment that neither the Swiss government nor the Federal Government of Nigeria had contacted them following Michael’s death.

However, in a formal reply dated June 4, 2025, the Embassy of Switzerland acknowledged receipt of the family’s petition and confirmed that a competent prosecutor’s office in Switzerland has opened an investigation into the incident.

The embassy’s response came shortly after the incident was reported by South-East Punch.

The letter, signed by Siamak Rouhani, the Chargé d’Affaires of Switzerland, stated:

“The Embassy of Switzerland acknowledges receipt of your letter dated 30 May, 2025…”

The investigation is expected to determine the full circumstances surrounding Michael Ekemezie’s untimely death, as calls for justice continue from both his family and members of the Nigerian community.

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