Three men gang-rape 15-year-old girl in Wajir

Police are looking for two men who gang-raped a 15-year-old girl Habaswein, Wajir County. A third suspect is already in custody. PHOTO | FILE

What you need to know:

  • The rapists fled and left the Form One student in critical condition.
  • She was airlifted to Nairobi for treatment.
  • Elders had tried to solve the matter through the maslah dispute resolution system but residents criticised them.

Police in Wajir County are investigating the gang-rape of a 15-year-old girl in Habaswein Sub-County.

The victim is reported to have been raped by three men on February 18 and 19.

RAPED

Speaking to the Nation, Habaswein OCPD Caleb Wesa said the girl was gang-raped and left in critical condition.

The perpetrators fled but one has been arrested, he added.

The Form One student was airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment.

Mr Wesa said the suspect would be arraigned in court. Police were still looking for the other two men and he expressed confidence they would soon be arrested.

Mr Wesa added that the case was being handled by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

The OCPD added that this was the second incident of rape in the area this year.

An attempt by elders to initiate an alternative dispute resolution system (maslaha) attracted criticism from residents, who want harsh punishments meted out to perpetrators.

The maslaha system has often been used to resolve various disputes, including cases of rape and defilement, where perpetrators only pay fines.

Often, the victims suffer stigma especially if they become pregnant as a result of the rape.

WARNING

Mr Wesa warned the community against using the maslaha system.

“I urge the community not to allow the maslaha system while dealing with issues involving rape and defilement. As the security department, we won’t allow such arrangements,” he said.

Mr Wesa said parents should take full responsibility in addressing the issue through moral guidance and advising their children against such acts.