Over 220, 000 children in Mombasa County currently out of school are at risk of online abuse since while observing self-distancing have turned into internet for consolation.
Speaking to KNA Mombasa children officer Philip Nzenge said there was concern over online child abuse asking parents to remain vigilant over what children are watching or interacting with online.
He urged parents to install child-friendly applications in their gadgets to protect children being pests to pedophiles online.
Nzenge said online abuse on children is said to have increased due to corona virus since parents and guardians have released their phones without restrictions to children to control their movements.
“Child online abuse is very common in Mombasa county with Nyali sub county being the hotspot adding that the department of children services in Mombasa is more worried about the trend now since the child have unlimited participation internet sites.
The officer hinted that the internet is used as sex grooming where children are initiated to sexual world and phonographic exposure.
He observed that child trafficking and smuggling can easily take place online and Mombasa being origin, transition and destination point we have all the reasons to worry on child internet engagements.
The children officer said all is not lost advising parents and guardians to ensure close supervision of children when using online sites.
“Should you find any trace of the online abuse among your child do report to child helpline116, Children officer or report to any police station and we will immediately report the matter to the DCI child protection unit in Mombasa CID Hqs for be necessary action”, said Nzenge.
By Joseph Kamolo
