Salvation Army preacher assaulted in Malawi, in an induced coma

A Salvation Army preacher from Australia who travelled to Malawi on a solo preaching tour is in an induced coma after being violently attacked in southern African nation.

Major Geoff Freind, 60, was attacked over the weekend as he walked between his hotel and a shopping centre.

He was left with critical injuries and was transferred to a South African hospital for specialised care.

Salvation Army divisional commander Major Neil Venables said the circumstances surrounding the assault were still sketchy.

“The Salvation Army is deeply saddened and greatly concerned for the wellbeing of Major Geoff Freind,” Venables said.

“Geoff is a well known personality. Energetic, passionate and very warm in nature and drawn to people in his network of ministry right across Perth.”

Major Venables asked for prayers for Major Freind.