Woman arrested for assaulting minor aged 7

Marakwet, Kenya: Police in Marakwet West sub-county are holding a middle-aged woman who allegedly assaulted her seven-year-old niece, inflicting serious injuries on her body.

Michele Jemwetich is reported to have been beating the minor regularly and locking her in the house before going out to work at a local bar.

According to the area Chief Children's officer, Peter Kutere, the child, who had bruises and looked emaciated, was rescued by a local chief and officials from the children's department and taken to Kapsowar mission hospital as the woman was arrested.

"We suspect the aunt, a barmaid in Kapsowar town, has been locking the child up and starving her," said the officer.

Marakwet West OCPD Mathews Mangira said the woman would be charged with abuse.