Residents of Matukanio Village within Subukia Sub County have protested against the release of a county government officer who allegedly defiled a twelve-year-old girl.
The irate villagers condemned the incident and called for investigations into circumstances under which the suspect was released after being held in police custody for hours.
Matukanio Village Chairman Samuel Omwoyo said the man is facing 11 other accusations of defilement and indecent assault from minors since he was posted in the region less than five months ago.
Mr. Omwoyo revealed that many of the victims and residents were willing to record statements with police that will facilitate the arrest and prosecution of the middle-aged officer.
The Class six girl was reportedly doing household chores on December 27 at her parents’ home which is within the compound where the suspect had rented residential premises, before he lured her into his house where he sexually assaulted her.
The placard waving mob was outraged after learning that the minor’s parents (names withheld) had agreed to enter an out of court settlement with the suspect following his arrest and lock up at a nearby police station.
Teresia Wanjiku, a neighbour said the minor had reported the matter to villagers after the suspect was released from police custody and initiated negotiations with her parents aimed at withdrawing the complaint from investigating officers.
“This is a total disgrace of justice. We cannot allow a culprit who committed such a heinous act to walk scot-free. There should be no complicity on this matter and officers have to explain why they released him from custody,” Wanjiku said.
Following the incident, residents reported the matter to the local AP camp prompting the arrest of the who was later handed over to criminal investigation detectives in Nakuru.
Sources said the county enforcement officer bought his freedom after allegedly paying Sh10,000 and agreed to pay the girl’s parents Sh300,000 as compensation.
Residents have called on the police and national government administrators in the area to move with speed and arrest the alleged defiler saying they were taking long to do so.
By Jane Ngugi/Dennis Rasto
