Police engage traditional leader on suicides in Rumphi

Police in Rumphi has sought for collaboration in fighting against suicides, murder and sudden deaths which are on the increase.

In an effort to address the problem, the police and Sub-traditional authority (STA) Kawazamawe joined in an awareness meeting held at Chirambo Primary School where community members under Kawazamawe were in attendance on Tuesday August 8 2023.

Speaking at the event, Assistant Superintendent Kondwani Zuze emphasized that due to increase of suicide cases, it was necessary for the law enforcers to partner with the community leadership so as to find lasting solutions to the problem.

Zuze stated that traditional leaders play a vital role in communicating with the community especially positive messages against taking ones own life when faced with challenges.

He added that it is important for people to value their own lives and families as suicides create huge problems to the family behind.

In his remarks, STA Kawazamawe assured the police that the community will work hand in hand with the police to address the problem.

He further applauded the law enforcement agents for engaging him and his area on such an important undertaking. Kawazamawe then pledged to reach all angles under his area with messages on dangers of committing suicides.

Statistics indicate that the police recorded 10 suicide cases from January to June 2023 as compared to 5 cases recorded over the same period in 2022.

Additionally, the police have registered 4 cases of drowning in 2023 against 1 case recorded in 2022 during the same period.
Two cases of alleged murder have been recorded this year while no case was recorded in 2022 over the period in question.

Statistics also reveals that , from January to date this year (2023), the Station has registered 21cases of suicide compared to 10 cases recorded in the same period in the previous year 2022.