Police courts the church on murder, suicide cases
Police in Mzimba have sought for spiritual intervention in fighting cases of suicide, murder and sudden deaths cases which are said to be on the increase.
The police have since partnered with Mzimba pastors fraternal in trying to find lasting solutions to these vices.
Speaking in an interview with Nyasa Times, Mzimba police officer-in charge Pike Mphaka said the police have been overwhelmed by increasing cases of suicide, murder and sudden deaths.
He said in 2010 the police registered 26 murder cases, 31 suicide and 27 sudden deaths. And in 2011 the police registered a total of 26 murder cases, 31 suicide and 27 sudden deaths.
“This January alone we have registered 5 suicide cases, 1 murder and 3 sudden deaths. It’s shocking how people decide to end their lives like that,” said Mphaka.
He said the church therefore has an important role to play in transforming the minds and attitudes of people so that they value and appreciate life.
The O/C said the church, which commands a large following as such could be an effective vehicle for disseminating messages that will remind the people that committing suicide is not a solution as it creates a host of problems for the children and family left behind.
“We want the church to engage in offering hope and counseling to the people whenever they have problems so that they don’t rush into hanging themselves.
And speaking in a separate interview, Mzimba pastors fraternal Pastor Hastings Simbeye called on the church to heal the spiritual and physical needs of the people.
Simbeye said his association will work hand in hand with the police and ensure that they reach out to all corners of the district with messages of hope and spiritual support.
