Police engage clergy, chiefs in death cases

Police in the Northern Region have engaged traditional leaders and the clergy to reduce loss of lives due to crime.

Speaking in an interview, Northern Region Commissioner of Police Paul Kanyama said the region is recording rising cases of suicide, murder and drowning.

He said most of the cases are preventable, but the region loses lives because a number of people are not sensitised to the evils of taking a life.

Kanyama said since people belong to various religions and are under several chiefs, the police thought it wise to work with them to curb the deaths.

He said chiefs and the clergy also command respect in the country, which will help people understand the sensitisation messages.

“We are recording an increase in death related cases, especially suicide and sudden deaths. Most of these deaths are as result of frustration. People take their lives because they have family problems or have a grudge with someone.

“However, these cases can be avoided if we reach out to the people and sensitise them that committing suicide is not an end to problems. When people commit suicide they create more problems.

“We believe that by working with religious groups and traditional leaders, we will reach to more people,” said Kanyama.

He also warned the public against drug and alcohol abuse, saying most people commit crimes under the influence of drugs or alcohol.