Tana River man arrested after alleged defilement sparks outrage

The suspect arrested./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Osman Waqo speaking to the press./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Ngui Mutuvya the chairperson of Kamba community in Madogo and Garissa./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Ibrahim Bilali speaking to the press./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

A middle-aged man was arrested on Friday morning in Mororo, Tana River County, after being accused of defiling a 6-year-old girl in the area.

Police from a nearby police post rescued the man from a mob that attempted to assault him following the allegation.

Reports from residents indicated that this was not the first time the man had been accused of such conduct. According to locals, he had previously faced similar allegations from other individuals in the area, though no official action had been taken in those past instances.

Residents expressed concern over the repeated nature of the allegations, calling for swift and lawful action to ensure that any victims receive protection and support and that due process is followed.

Speaking to the press, Osman Wako, a local community leader, said cases of defilement and early pregnancies were on the rise in Mororo.

He also urged parents to remain vigilant and take extra care of their children now that schools are closed, emphasizing the importance of keeping them safe during this period.

“The suspect has been accused of more than one defilement case, and this is the third time such an allegation has been made, yet no action has been taken,” Wako said.

He appealed to authorities and everyone involved in the case to act swiftly within the law and ensure a fair and transparent process, noting that the community is watching closely.

Ngui Mutuvya, the chairperson of the Kamba community in Garissa and Tana River County, also called on authorities to ensure that justice is pursued lawfully and urged residents of Mororo to remain united regardless of tribe.

Residents reported that allegations of defilement in the area have been on the rise in recent months and called on security agencies to take firm but lawful action against anyone found responsible.

The community remains hopeful that justice will be served, and parents are urged to stay vigilant in safeguarding their children.