Police in Bungoma are holding a nurse attached to a private hospital following allegations that he raped a Form Three student who had been admitted for malaria treatment and wound dressing.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday night, when the minor was under the care of the suspect.
According to preliminary reports, the nurse was allegedly caught in the act by a fellow staff member who was making rounds in the wards.
The suspect is claimed to have confessed to the incident to the hospital’s management, prompting swift action from authorities.
However, the victim’s family has raised serious concerns over what they term as an attempted cover-up by the facility.
Speaking to the press, the victim’s mother claimed the family suspects efforts were made to tamper with evidence shortly after the incident.
“Our child told us that the doctor dragged her and undressed her, and there was no one else where they were. But the following morning after the incident happened at midnight, they told our child to go take a bath. They are trying to conceal the evidence,” she claimed.
The suspect is currently being held at Bungoma Police Station and is expected to be charged in court once investigations are complete.
The hospital where the incident occurred is also under scrutiny, with police not ruling out further action against management if found complicit.
The minor had reportedly been admitted to the hospital for standard treatment, only for the incident to take place within the same facility that was entrusted with her care.
Confirming the arrest, Bungoma South Police Commander William Letting condemned the incident and warned against the rising trend of sexual violence in the region.
“Police officers, upon receiving the report, immediately went to the hospital, confirmed the incident, and arrested the suspect, who is now in our custody. We have already pressed charges and he is awaiting arraignment in court,” Letting said.
Letting further reiterated the need for vigilance and accountability, especially in institutions meant to provide care and safety to the public.
He said security agencies would continue to pursue justice for victims and ensure those found guilty face the full force of the law.
This incident has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of laws regarding the protection of minors, particularly in health facilities and learning institutions.
