A post-mortem examination has been unable to determine a conclusive cause of death for Yves Sakila, the man who died after being detained on suspicion of shoplifting at Dublin's Arnotts department store. Sources have confirmed that the autopsy on the Congolese national, who passed away on Friday, returned inconclusive results. Gardaí are now awaiting further analysis, including toxicology testing, to examine Mr Sakila's system. Those results are not expected for several weeks.
Background of the Incident
Mr Sakila, who had lived in Ireland for 22 years, was apprehended by security staff outside the Henry Street entrance of Arnotts on Friday afternoon on suspicion of theft. Sources indicate he was alleged to have stolen at least two bottles of scent from the store. He had accumulated numerous criminal convictions since 2011 and served multiple prison sentences. Just five months prior, he received a €110 (£95) fine for stealing perfume from the same shop, handed down at Dublin District Court on January 13.
Police Involvement and Medical Emergency
Gardaí were called to the scene and had direct contact with Mr Sakila after security personnel detained him. The Irish Mirror reported that gardaí briefly restrained him with handcuffs while attending to an 80-year-old pensioner he had collided with during his escape attempt. Shortly after, gardaí noticed Mr Sakila had become unresponsive and commenced CPR. He was rushed to the Mater Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on Friday evening.
Investigations Launched
Two separate inquiries have been launched into Mr Sakila's death: one by gardaí themselves, and another by Fiosrú, the policing ombudsman. Fiosrú confirmed it received a referral from a Garda Superintendent under section 203(1) of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. The watchdog emphasized that a referral does not necessarily imply wrongdoing by gardaí, but ensures independent investigation of incidents involving police contact resulting in death or serious injury.
Community Reaction and Vigil
Over 100 people held a vigil outside Arnotts on Tuesday morning, with chants of "Justice for Yves" and "no more violence." Attendees carried signs, including one reading "Black lives matter here too." The footage of the incident, circulating online, has been described as "deeply disturbing" and sparked anxiety among minority communities. Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed condolences and called for a thorough investigation. The Irish Network Against Racism (INAR) urged authorities to examine all circumstances to ensure minority ethnic community confidence in the justice system.
Speakers at the vigil included John Kabongo, who said his children were shaken after viewing the footage. He also referenced former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's comments about not taking people from the Congo, for which Ahern has apologized. Walter Kabangu of the Congolese Chamber of Commerce Ireland expressed shock and demanded justice.
Official Statements
Arnotts released a statement expressing deep sadness and confirming cooperation with gardaí. The retailer said it is conducting a full review with its independently contracted security firm. Gardaí at Store Street have appealed for witnesses and video footage from the Henry Street area between 5pm and 5:30pm on Friday, 15th May 2026. Anyone with information is asked to contact Store Street Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line.
