Police in Kisii have launched a manhunt for a 50-year man in Marani Sub-County who allegedly defiled his six-year-old stepdaughter.
The incident that happened on Saturday has had local leaders call for justice for the victim.
The man is said to have defiled the girl inside a coffee plantation on Saturday while it was raining.
The girl later reported the incident to be the mother who took her to Marani Sub-County Hospital and later referred to Kisii Teaching and Referal Hospital (KTRH).
The hospital’s Head of Clinical Services Dr Bina Ongaki said the girl has been stabilized and could be discharged anytime. “She was taken to theatre for surgery. She has responded well to medication.”
Kisii Governor James Ongwae said he was saddened and deeply disturbed to hear about the incident. “It’s chillingly that the minor was defiled in a coffee plantation on Saturday and left for dead.”
“I have undertaken to cover all medical expenses for the minor until she fully recovers,” added the governor.
The governor directed that the child will not be released to the parents, instead, she will be handed over to the children’s department that in collaboration with the Social Protection Unit, will find a safe home for her.
“I call on members of the public to volunteer information that will lead to his arrest so that he faces the full force of the law.”
Unfortunately, reports indicate that such cases are becoming common in Marani Sub-County.
To worsen the situation, some families conceal such acts ostensibly ‘to safe marriages.’
Further, the Governor says, a sensitization campaign among the residents of the county will be undertaken, to eliminate defilement cases and all forms of gender-based violence.
By Frank Akunga
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