Killing of children worries residents in Kisii

Relatives of Stephanie Kerubo and Diana Kerubo, the children aged four and nine who were found murdered in Kenyanya, Kisii County. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

Authorities in Kisii are concerned with the recent spate of defilement and murder of minors in the region.

County Police Coordinator Martin Kibet said all stakeholders must help solve the mess. Governor James Ongwae said he was concerned that the society was losing morals.

“Our investigations (into the defilement and murders) have always led us to either family members or close family friends,” said Kibet.

He added: “The perpetrators turn to murder because the victims could be knowing them. Church leaders and even the political class must come out to fight these vices.”

Police records indicate that the victims are as young as two, and the culprits are well known to them.

A recent case at Kenyenya sub-county saw two girls, Stephanie Kerubo, four, and Diana Kerubo, nine, defiled then killed according to Kenyenya police Inspector Nicholas Wambugu.

On April 15 the bruised body of a Standard Eight girl Judy Mokeira was found dumped in a thicket near her home in Kisii Central sub-county.

Her body had visible head bruises and blood was oozing from the nose. She also had blood stains on her clothes. Detectives said she had been defiled.

Three people have already pleaded for the murder. Presiding judge Rose Ougo set July 31 for hearing the case.

On May 27, the body of 10-year-old Judith Ombati was found dumped a few metres from their house at Nyaura village in Nyaribari Chache.

Judith’s killers are said to have used socks to strangle her. They later lay her body on a stone at a river bank.

In April last year a nine-year-old girl was defiled and killed in Chitago village, South Mugirango.

The body of the Standard Three girl was found dumped in a bush. Two suspects were charged with the murder.