Two Met Cops Cleared Over Man’s Death After Swallowing Drugs in Custody
Two Metropolitan Police officers have been cleared of gross misconduct following the tragic death of 30-year-old Mikias Tekeste. He died after swallowing drugs while in custody in July 2023.
PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow Found Not Responsible
The disciplinary hearing, which wrapped up on Thursday, 10 July, ruled that PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow, both from the South Area Command Unit, acted properly during their contact with Mr Tekeste. The panel found the allegations not proven and cleared the officers of wrongdoing.
The case had been referred for a hearing by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which disagreed with the Met’s initial assessment that there was no case to answer.
Mikias Tekeste’s Arrest and Custody Drama
- Mr Tekeste was arrested on 15 July 2023 for recall to prison.
- During arrest, he discarded some Class A drugs but secretly swallowed two packages en route to custody.
- At the custody centre, he reported withdrawal symptoms linked to cocaine and opiate use.
- He was re-arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and placed under 30-minute observations.
- While in his cell, he suffered multiple seizures, fell unconscious, and later died in hospital.
Investigation and Lessons Moving Forward
The IOPC launched an independent probe, as is standard with all deaths in police custody. The Met continues to review its custody procedures and officer training to prevent such tragedies in future.
“Our thoughts remain with Mikias’s family and friends at this difficult time,” the Met said.
