An officer commits suicide
An officer commits suicide
Shortly after writing his girlfriend a suicide note, a police officer assigned to the Timau Police Station in Meru committed suicide within the station.
Officers at the station reported hearing a gunshot coming from Corporal Simon Gitonga’s home, according to a police record that the source was able to get on Friday.
Led by Sub-County Police Commander Buuri West and Deputy Officer Commanding Station, the officers rushed to the house and opened the door, finding Gitonga’s body lying in a pool of blood on the floor.
His gun, AK 47 rifle, was recovered by his side.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the officer had shot himself on the chin and the bullet exited through his upper right ear.
One empty cartridge and a suicide note were also recovered from the scene. In the suicide note, the officer alleged that he had been conned by a lover. The suspect is still at large.
The station’s Crime Scene and Investigations (CSI) officers processed and recorded the scene.
In anticipation of a post-mortem, Gitonga’s body was taken to Nanyuki Referral Mortuary.
The tragedy brings to light the concerning number of law enforcement officer suicides that had occurred in the previous year.
The National Police Service (NPS) reports that at least 12,000 policemen are dealing with mental health problems as a result of work-related problems, as they frequently operate in high-pressure conditions.
Relationship issues, family-related challenges, and the high cost of living are further concerns. Psychologists, doctors, and counselors advise getting assistance if you encounter any mental health problems. For assistance, contact the Kenya Red Cross at 1199, their toll-free helpline.
