Mr Forbes, 37, died on 15 January 2024 after a fall from height. He had been abducted and held against his will at a flat in Elphinstone Court, Aberdeen.

A preliminary hearing is set for 7 October 2025 in Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

Procurator fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for the Crown Office, said: “The death of James Forbes occurred in circumstances giving rise to serious public concern and as such the Lord Advocate has decided that a discretionary fatal accident inquiry should be held.

“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.

“An FAI will allow a full public airing of the evidence of the procurator fiscal’s wider investigations with interested parties. The evidence will be tested in a public setting and be the subject of an independent judicial determination.

“James’ family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”