People struggling with family and other challenges have been urged to seek help instead of taking their own lives, as police raise concern over increasing suicide cases in Balaka.
Balaka Police have warned communities under Group Village Headwoman Mpulula in Traditional Authority Nsamala to stop resorting to suicide whenever they face personal or family challenges.
The warning was issued on Friday during a crime prevention awareness campaign held at Mpulula Headquarters, where Community Policing Coordinator Sub Inspector Masautso Katemera said police are worried by the growing number of youths and family members dying by suicide.
Katemera encouraged people facing emotional or domestic problems to report them to village leaders, community structures or the Police Victim Support Unit so they can receive assistance instead of resorting to suicide.
He also reminded the community that attempting to commit suicide remains an offence under Malawi’s laws and warned that anyone found doing so risks legal action.
Group Village Headwoman Mpulula welcomed the awareness campaign, describing it as timely and important in helping community members understand the dangers of suicide and where they can seek help when facing difficulties.
Apart from suicide prevention, police also sensitised residents on crime reporting, Gender-Based Violence, child protection, bail guidelines, the importance of strengthening community crime prevention committees, and the need for joint patrols between police officers and community policing structures.
The awareness campaign was facilitated by Community Policing Coordinator Sub Inspector Masautso Katemera, Victim Support Unit officer Sub Inspector Linda Gondwe, and Child Protection Officer Sergeant Grevazio Nyongani.
