A police officer has died by suicide after allegedly ingesting a pesticide at his home in Mitatini, Mavoko, Machakos County.
The officer, identified as Constable Francis Mutua, was attached to the KBC Police Station in Matungulu, Machakos. According to initial reports, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, August 31.
His wife revealed that Mutua had gone to bed the previous night complaining about financial difficulties. At dawn, he reportedly woke up, walked into the kitchen, and returned to the bedroom with a cup. He then emptied a pesticide into it and swallowed the chemical.
Moments later, his wife raised an alarm, drawing the attention of neighbours who rushed to the house and attempted to administer first aid. Unfortunately, their efforts were unsuccessful, and the officer died at the scene. His body was later moved to the mortuary as investigations into the incident continue.
This tragedy adds to a growing number of suicide cases among members of the police service. In recent years, there has been heightened concern over the mental health and wellbeing of officers, with financial stress, trauma, and work-related pressures frequently cited as major triggers.
Authorities have acknowledged that police officers often find themselves on the frontline of community challenges, expected to maintain law and order in difficult environments while constantly facing life-threatening situations. Over time, this has contributed to emotional strain and burnout, with some officers resorting to extreme actions.
To address the crisis, the National Police Service Commission has rolled out counselling programmes and established a specialised mental health unit. The unit is mandated to design and implement outreach initiatives aimed at preventing substance abuse and promoting psychological wellbeing among officers. Plans are underway to expand and devolve these services to ensure broader access.
Globally, the World Health Organisation links suicide cases to multiple factors, including financial hardship, joblessness, depression, bipolar disorder, previous attempts, substance misuse, bullying, and family history of suicide. Kenya has not been immune, and the police service, in particular, has faced significant challenges.
The government has pledged continued efforts to strengthen support systems, with the aim of reducing the incidence of suicide among law enforcement personnel and ensuring officers can cope better with the demands of their profession.
