Civil society groups have raised alarm over increasing cases of child abuse in the North Rift, calling for swift justice against perpetrators.
This follows the arrest of a school van driver, Benard Mutai, accused of defiling a three-year-old girl in Kipkabus, Uasin Gishu, on May 8 while transporting children home from school. The child sustained serious injuries.
Appearing before Eldoret Principal Magistrate Mogire Onkoba, police were granted seven days to detain Mutai as investigations continue. Prosecutor Patrick Onjoro cited threats to the suspect’s safety and risk of flight as reasons for continued custody. Key witness statements and forensic tests are still pending.
Mutai’s lawyer, John Obudho, had sought bail, arguing the suspect would cooperate with the court. The magistrate, however, emphasized the gravity of the offence and the child’s welfare.
Human rights activists, led by Benadine Kipruto, Kimutai Kirui, and nominated MCA Regina Chumba, condemned the incident and called for thorough investigations. They urged school administrators to tighten student safety measures, including ensuring children are accompanied by teachers during transport.
Activists demanded the school be temporarily closed and pledged to pursue justice, urging police to intensify efforts against all forms of child abuse in the region.
