Australian pastor dies after being attacked in Malawi

An Australian Salvation Army major, who was attacked by unknown assailants in Blantyre, died last Wednesday in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was taken for medical attention.

Geoff Freind, 60, was attacked and left in a coma around Keza Office Park area near Chichiri Roundabout and it is believed that he was coming from Chichiri Shopping Centre, according to police.

National Police spokesperson James Kadadzera yesterday said details about the incident are not known because Freind was alone and police are still investigating the case.

“It is believed that Freind was residing in one of the lodges around Chichiri and he met his attackers around 7pm on the day of the incident. He was left with critical injuries and was transferred to South Africa for specialised care.

“He has died while in South Africa. As police, we are still investigating the matter to bring the assailants to book,” he said.

In a statement released on September 20 after his attack, The Salvation Army expressed sadness and concern over Freind’s well-being.

“The Salvation Army feels the distress and anguish of Geoff’s immediate and extended family as he is much loved and respected as a family man, friend and as a Salvation Army officer for 34 years. Over these 34 years, Geoff and his wife Lyn have served in ministry in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and most recently Western Australia.

“Geoff has dedicated his life to his ministry of faith and service and this has impacted many people in many walks of life. Geoff is a well-known personality, energetic and warm by nature, drawn to people evidenced by his network of support right across Perth.

“This was also displayed through his “Hotel Ministry” where he thrived on engaging with people in conversation seeking to offer words of encouragement and support,” reads part of the statement sourced on the Salvation Army website.

Efforts to speak to Salvation Army-Malawi proved futile. A visit to Salvation Army-Malawi headquarters in Ndirande Township in Blantyre found the person with details about the incident not available and his contacts were not provided.

However, the Salvation Army website says Freind was in Malawi for speaking engagements.

Freind was attacked while in Malawi on official assignments n