Four dead during Christmas as police warn of alcohol-fuelled violence

Police have confirmed two murders and two suspected suicide during the Christmas period in the National Capital District and Central Province, prompting a strong warning from authorities ahead of New Year celebrations.

NCD and Central Provinces Commander Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police, Benjamin Turi, said the incidents occurred over the festive period and are all under active police investigation.

Commander Turi confirmed that two murders were reported at Sabama and Joyce Bay. He also said a woman and man died of suicide in Kila Barracks and 6 Mile.

One of the murders at Sabama involved a domestic violence incident in which a Goilala man allegedly murdered his wife. The suspect is now in police custody.

Commander Turi said the second murder involved a 16-year-old boy from Western Province who was allegedly attacked and killed by men from Enga Province residing in the area. Two suspects have been arrested and are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

Another suicide was reported at 6 Mile, while police are also investigating the circumstances surrounding the suicide at Kila Barracks.

Police units responded immediately to the Sabama killing involving the Western Province youth and appealed to residents not to retaliate or take the law into their own hands.

“We advised the community to remain calm and allow police to do their work,” Commander Turi said. “Some suspects’ names have been provided to police, and arrests have already been made."

Commander Turi said all the murder cases reported during the Christmas period were alcohol-related, reinforcing the need for discipline and restraint during New Year celebrations.

“When people are under the influence of alcohol, they lose respect for others,” he said. “That is why liquor is banned during the festive season, but people are still consuming it."

Commander Turi said the teenage victim in Sabama should have been at home but was allegedly on the road disturbing others when the fatal incident occurred.

“I am calling on the people of NCD and Central Provinces to behave,” he said. “You only have one life. Respect yourself, your neighbours and your family. If you die now, your children will suffer."

He appealed to the public to celebrate the New Year responsibly, urging those who consume alcohol to remain indoors, respect their neighbours and avoid loud or disruptive behaviour.

Commander Turi also condemned the burning and throwing of tyres on roads during New Year celebrations, describing it as a primitive and dangerous practice that must stop.

Police have increased patrols across NCD and Central Province as part of ongoing festive operations.