Authorities in Nyeri County, Kenya are investigating a case of suicide involving a prison warden.
Anthony Maina Mahihu, a constable at Kingongo GK prison, was found dead in his home in the Asian Quarters at Mukaro.
He had hanged himself using sisal rope while on medical leave for mental health issues.
His sister reported the incident to the police on February 18th.
This is the latest case in a growing trend of suicide among police and prison officials in Kenya.
Officials attribute this trend to the trauma of out-of-work issues.
In response, authorities have set up welfare departments and counseling units to provide support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
The counseling unit is responsible for designing and leading outreach programs aimed at preventing mental health and substance abuse issues.
It also assists clients and families affected by these issues.
Additionally, the unit participates in the formulation of counseling policies, regulations, and strategies, as well as in the implementation, interpretation, and review of counseling services, policies, procedures, and systems.
Another prison warden case occurred when an officer from Maralal main prison was arrested in the Nzambani area over claims of sexual assault.
The officer was on leave at the time of the incident and is currently in police custody pending further investigation.
These cases highlight the significance of addressing mental health challenges and offering adequate support to those who are struggling.
With the implementation of the counseling unit and other initiatives, authorities aim to reduce the occurrence of suicide and other mental health problems among police and prison officials in Kenya.
