Residents of Tassia Estate in Nairobi’s Embakasi area were left in shock after a 15-year-old girl allegedly threw a two-year-old child into the Embakasi River in an incident that nearly claimed the toddler’s life.
The child was rescued by a Good Samaritan, identified as Stephen Odit, whose quick action prevented what witnesses say could have been a fatal tragedy. The incident occurred near a bridge separating Savannah Eldelvale School and Tassia Estate, a busy section frequented by pedestrians and boda boda operators.
Odit said he was walking from the Greenspan area towards Tassia when the incident unfolded before his eyes. He explained that he had opted to walk instead of taking a motorcycle, a decision he believes ultimately saved the child’s life.
“From Greenspan, I decided to walk to Tassia. A motorcycle was charging only Sh50, but something told me to walk and observe the area,” Odit recalled. “When I reached the bridge near Savannah Eldelvale School, I looked back and saw a young girl dropping a two-year-old child into the river.”
He said that although several people were nearby at the time, he was the closest to the scene and acted immediately.
“I screamed at the top of my voice and ran towards her. With the help of others, we managed to pull the child out of the dirty sewage water along the riverbank,” he said.
The Embakasi River is heavily polluted with sewage and industrial waste, posing serious health risks.
The rescued child was rushed to hospital after reportedly swallowing contaminated water and remains under medical observation.
The girl was later escorted to Tassia Police Station with the help of boda boda operators at the scene, where the matter was formally reported.
An officer on duty at the station, who declined to be named, acknowledged the incident.
“Yes, we are aware of the case and the suspect is currently in custody as investigations continue,” the officer said. “For more details, you may refer to our seniors, particularly the OCPD, who is authorised to speak to the media.”
Further inquiries revealed that the 15-year-old had travelled to Nairobi from Bungoma County on December 26, 2025, to visit her aunt, who resides in Tassia Estate. According to Odit, the girl initially declined to provide contact details for her guardian and allegedly gave incorrect phone numbers.
The girl’s parents and aunt were later contacted and summoned to the police station. They reportedly informed officers that the minor has mental health challenges and requires psychological support.
Meanwhile, Odit has expressed his willingness to support the rehabilitation of the teenager and help facilitate her return to school.
He said he intends to engage the girl’s parents and explore possible avenues to ensure she receives appropriate care, guidance and educational support.