MAN HANGS HIMSELF: POLICE SEEK PUBLIC'S HELP IN IDENTIFYING DECEASED

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

In Mangochi district, a young man, believed to be in his early 30s, has taken his own life by ingesting pesticide at a local resthouse.

The deceased, who remains unidentified, is described as slim, dark-complexioned, and sporting a medium beard.

According to Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi, Public Relations Officer at Mangochi Police Station, the man checked into the resthouse alone on the evening of January 3, 2025.

She said he was last seen carrying a bottle of beer and a black plastic bag.

“The resthouse manager reported that the guest did not leave his room or receive any visitors that night.

“The following morning, a cleaner discovered the man lying unconscious in his room, with vomit scattered throughout the area.

“The incident was immediately reported to Mangochi Police, who found the man wearing only boxers, with an empty bottle of Kuche Kuche beer and a container of Snowstorm pesticide beside him,” she said.

She added that the man was rushed to Mangochi District Hospital but was pronounced dead while receiving treatment.

A postmortem examination revealed that his death resulted from ingesting pesticide mixed with beer.

The police are now appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the deceased. Anyone missing a relative is urged to visit the Mangochi District Hospital mortuary or contact the nearest police formation.

This incident highlights the growing concern of mental health issues in Malawi. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Malawi has one of the highest rates of suicide in Africa.

The country has also seen an increase in cases of gender-based violence, which can contribute to mental health issues.