Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has launched an investigation into the apparent rise in suicide cases within its ranks, following the tragic deaths of two officers in just one week.
The Police National Commissioner (NatCom), Vusi Manoma Masango, has appointed a special task team to investigate the root causes of suicide among officers. This move was announced on Tuesday, 29 July 2025, by Chief Police Information and Communications Officer (PICO), Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati.
Vilakati confirmed that a young officer stationed at Lobamba Police Station had taken his own life that morning. She said the Royal Eswatini Police Service was deeply disturbed by the incident, particularly because the officer was still in the early stages of his career. The incident has sent shockwaves across the force, highlighting the emotional and psychological pressures faced by law enforcement personnel.
This marks the second case in just one week. The previous incident involved Lucky Vilakati, an officer stationed at Malkerns Police Station, who also took his own life under undisclosed circumstances.
In response, NatCom Masango established the task team with a mandate to engage officers across all regions, assess current mental health support structures within the police service, and recommend sustainable strategies for prevention and early intervention.
The police service is increasingly acknowledging the impact of psychological strain, workplace stress, and personal hardships on its members. Although formal data on police suicides in Eswatini is limited, the recent incidents underscore a growing concern around officer well-being, particularly among younger personnel.
The task team is expected to work closely with mental health professionals and relevant stakeholders to understand the underlying issues. It is anticipated that their findings will guide the development of policies aimed at improving mental health resources, including confidential counselling services, peer support networks, and training to identify early warning signs of distress.
The police leadership has also encouraged officers and their families to make use of the existing support systems and to speak out if they feel overwhelmed.
REPS has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a healthier, more supportive environment for all its members as investigations get underway.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
