Emmanuella Lum Che, a Cameroonian national residing in Bonn, Germany, was found dead in her apartment after more than 24 hours of no contact with friends or family. Her death, which has gained attention on social media and blogs, has unfortunately sparked misinformation suggesting that German authorities are actively seeking her family members. Official communications from German police and forensic departments have refuted this claim.
Discovery of the Body
A friend, worried about Lum’s lack of response for over a day, visited her flat and found no answer at the door, leading to the discovery of her body, according to police reports. The friend then alerted local authorities.
Police entered the apartment forcibly and found Lum lying on her back. She was however, already deceased at the time of discovery on May 24 at 10:30 PM.
Emmanuella Lum Che had relocated to Germany through marriage, but the relationship did not endure. She had been living alone in Bonn and had reportedly been dealing with ongoing health issues that forced her to stop working, according to close contacts familiar with her situation.
Initial Police Action
In a formal notice addressed to Lum’s relatives, German authorities clarified why an investigation was initiated:
“The doctor certified a non-natural cause of death or an unclear cause of death due to a lack of knowledge about the medical history. By law, the Criminal Police are therefore obligated to initiate a death investigation procedure.”
The police also emphasised that this is a standard procedure in such cases and not indicative of suspicion against any individual.
“The investigations are particularly necessary to rule out any third-party involvement in your relative’s death,” the letter continued.
They transported the body to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, for further examination.
Autopsy Findings
Following the autopsy, authorities confirmed there was no evidence of foul play. However, the exact cause of death could not be determined.
“Even after the autopsy, no information can be given about the exact time of death,” said Daniel Wulff, Criminal Chief Inspector with PP Bonn’s Criminal Investigation Department 11. “There were no indications of any outside involvement.”
With the forensic investigation completed, Lum’s body and apartment were officially released.
Family Communication and Responsibilities
Lum’s sister, Ntamusang Neh Vera Che, based in Cameroon, has also been actively communicating with German authorities. In a letter, she wrote:
“We have been advised to contact a funeral director to assist with the necessary procedures, including the coordination with the authorities and eventual arrangements for burial or repatriation.”
Police advised that:
“The body should be taken over by a funeral director as soon as possible; otherwise, increased costs may be incurred.”
Additionally, keys and documents related to Lum’s residence have been made available to the authorised funeral director.
Call for Support: Fundraiser Launched for Repatriation
Lum’s family has launched an appeal for financial assistance to repatriate her remains to Cameroon. Hence, a fundraiser has been set up to help cover the cost of transporting her body and coordinating funeral arrangements.
How to Donate:
PayPal Pool: https://www.paypal.com/pool/9ffOgmfEZF?sr=accr
PayPal Account: bihstico@yahoo.co.uk
Bank Transfer:
Account Name: Honorine Abt Tawah
Bank: Kreissparkasse Tuttlingen
IBAN: DE84643500700021365676
Contact Information:
- +49 1512 2016825
- +49 178 5726656
- +49 176 31230588
- +49 1520 7358586
Setting the Record Straight
There is no ongoing criminal pursuit of Emmanuella Lum Che’s family, contrary to misinformation online. The criminal police involvement is a routine part of death certification procedures when the cause of death is unclear. The focus now is on concluding the formalities and supporting the family in returning Lum’s remains to Cameroon.
For accurate updates, refer to official communications and verified contacts listed above.
