Increase in sexual abuse against minors in North Rift sparks concern

Civil society groups have decried rising cases of abuses against children in the North Rift region and demanded for action against perpetrators.

This came as a school van driver suspected to have defiled a three-year-old girl was arraigned before a court in Eldoret.

Principal magistrate Mogire Onkoba allowed police seven days to detain Benard Mutai in order to complete investigations.

The driver is alleged to have defiled the child in the van on May 8 within Kipkabus area in Uasin Gishu county when he was dropping the children from school to their homes, causing her serious injuries.

“I allow the seven days so that the prosecution can complete investigations and bring the suspect back to court,” magistrate Onkoba said.

The prosecution, led by Patrick Onjoro, said it was for the safety of the suspect that he remains in custody as investigations continue.

“The ground is so hostile and people are baying for his blood. It’s therefore in his own interest and safety that he remains in custody,” he added.

He said police were yet to record key statements and carry out other tests in relation to the matter.

Onjoro said they also feared the suspect would escape if released on bail.

Onkoba, terming the offence serious, said the court had to act in the interest of the minor.

Lawyer John Obudho, appearing for the suspect, had requested the suspect be released on bail pending investigations.

Obudho said the prosecution had not advanced serious reasons to deny the accused his right to be released on bail.

“My client is willing to cooperate with the court and attend whenever required to do so,” he said.

Human rights activists led by chairperson Benadine Kipruto, Kimutai Kirui and nominated MCA Regina Chumba demanded for thorough investigations.

“We thank the police for the action they have taken so far and ask that the suspect be made to face the law,” Kirui said.

Kipruto asked school managers to enhance safety of learners who should be accompanied by teachers at all times.

Chumba, on the other, hand said: “We condemn the attack on the child and demand for justice in this matter at all costs.”

They have demanded that the school be shut down pending investigations.

“We will fight to ensure justice for the young soul abused by the school driver and we demand that such perpetrators must be severely punished by the law,” Chumba added.

The activists also urged police to record and thoroughly investigate all forms of abuse against children in the region so that stakeholders can act together while pushing for accountability.