By Thokozani Mazibuko
A police officer stationed at the Mbabane Police Station has died by suicide after reportedly shooting himself.
This incident follows the shocking murder-suicide case from just a week prior, where another officer fatally shot his wife, also a fellow cop, before turning the gun to himself.
With these recent tragedies, three officers have lost their lives to gun violence in just seven days.
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The Police Information and Communication Officer, Phindile Vilakati, confirmed the news, stating, “Yes, there is an officer who has shot and killed himself; however, investigations have been opened.”
The motive behind the suicidal act of the deceased could not be established immediately by this Publication when going to Press.
Meanwhile, the earlier incident, involving the officer who tragically took the life of his wife before committing suicide, had already highlighted the pressing issues of domestic violence and mental health within the force.
Colleagues and community members are left grappling with grief, shock, and disbelief as they mourn the loss of their peers.
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“We need to address these issues immediately,” said one local advocate. “Our officers are human beings first, and they need to know they have support available,” he was quoted by this newspaper as saying.
It should be noted that these three deaths in quick succession, opened a crucial dialogue about the mental health needs of officers and the importance of early intervention and support.
