Letter of the Day | Mental health issues need empathy and support

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing to express my heartfelt sympathy for the families and loved ones affected by the tragic incident that occurred at a funeral held at Dovecot Memorial Park. The desecration of the deceased body by a young man, said to be of unsound mind, and his subsequent fatal shooting by a licensed firearm holder, has left our community reeling in shock and disbelief.

As I reflect on this devastating event, my thoughts are with both the family of the deceased, who were seeking to lay their loved one to rest with dignity, and the family of the young man who lost his life. It is unbearable to think that a funeral, a sacred place for mourning, was transformed into a scene of chaos and tragedy.

However, as the situation unfolded, it became painfully clear that the police, who were present on the scene, were ill-equipped to handle the situation. They lacked the necessary tools, such as a net to subdue the mentally challenged man, and protective gear, such as hazmat suits, to shield themselves from potential health risks in handling the corpse.

This tragic incident highlights the dire need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing mental health crises and public health concerns in our country. It is evident that this situation required specialised expertise and equipment, which fell outside the purview of law enforcement. The mental health unit in the Public Health Department should have been summoned to handle the situation, as they possess the necessary training and equipment to manage such crises.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, I urge our community to come together in support of both families. We must acknowledge the unimaginable pain and trauma that they are experiencing and offer our collective condolences.

Further, this incident serves as a poignant reminder of the need for greater awareness, understanding, and support for mental health issues in our society. We must work towards creating a more compassionate and inclusive environment that prioritises the well-being and safety of all citizens, particularly those who may be vulnerable or struggling.

PAUL NAPIER