14 Jun 2018

Samoa police investigate spate of suicides

4:21 pm on 14 June 2018

Samoa police are investigating three unrelated suicides reported over the weekend.

Samoan police headquarters in Apia

Samoan police headquarters in Apia Photo: RNZI/Sally Round

Talamua Online reported that one of the deceased was a former university lecturer awaiting trial on attempted murder charges.

Police told the news service that the expatrite Christopher Gounder had been out on bail when he took his life.

According to police, inquests will be held at the discretion of the coroner.

Where to get help

In Samoa:

SAMOA LIFELINE 800-5433

In New Zeakand:

Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.

Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357

Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.

Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7)

Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)

Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz

What's Up: online chat (7pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 children's helpline (1pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-10pm weekends)

Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)

Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254

Healthline: 0800 611 116

Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.