Leicestershire Police being investigated over handling of 80-year-old's death
Bhim Kholi died after he was found with serious injuries when walking his dog
Last updated 26th Feb 2026
The police watchdog says Leicestershire Police has referred itself in relation to its handling of the investigation into the death of Bhim Kholi.
The 80-year-old died from injuries he suffered when he was attacked while walking his dog in Franklin Park.
What happened to Bhim Kholi?
The 80-year-old was yards away from his home in Braunstone Town when he suffered a broken neck and fractured ribs by being kicked and punched by a balaclava-clad boy.
Mr Kohli had been racially abused, laughed at by a girl, and left on the ground before his children found him severely injured in Franklin Park, near Leicester. He died in hospital the next day.
Since, a 15 year old boy has been ordered to serve seven years' detention and a 13 year old girl has been handed a three-year youth rehabilitation order after being found guilty of manslaughter.
'An investigation was required'
A spokesperson from the police watchdog, the IOPC, told us: "In January 2026 we received a complaint referral from Leicestershire Police in relation to its handling of the investigation into the death of Bhim Kohli.
“After carefully assessing the information provided by the force, we decided an investigation was required and that it was appropriate to be carried out locally by Leicestershire Police.
“To provide reassurance and transparency in this process, we will retain a level of independent oversight as the complainant will be provided with a right of review to the IOPC, should they be dissatisfied with the outcome."