A 19-year-old student from the GCE Advanced Level Mathematics stream at a school in the Kokuvil area of Jaffna died by suicide on the 29th, allegedly due to an addiction to computer games, according to police investigations. Sri Lanka Latest News
Police said the youth, a resident of Vimankamam village in Thelippalai, was reportedly wearing a special outfit related to computer games at the time of the incident.
Investigations have revealed that the student had been addicted to computer games for some time, and that his parents, relatives, and teachers had repeatedly warned him about the issue. The incident has drawn further attention as all four other members of his family are reportedly individuals with special needs, making him the family’s only hope. His untimely death has caused deep sorrow among residents in the area.
According to police, certain computer games assign extremely difficult and challenging tasks to players after they reach specific levels. Authorities stated that some students may experience mental stress, fear, or pressure when they are unable to complete such challenges, which could lead them to take drastic decisions.
Police are also investigating whether the student may have made such a decision after facing a challenge in a particular game.
According to statistics, seven deaths linked to computer games have been reported in the Jaffna District over the past four years, raising serious social concerns.
The body of the deceased student has been placed at Thelippalai Hospital, while further investigations are being carried out by the Thelippalai Police.
