Police in Loiyangalani sub-county in Marsabit County are holding five suspects in connection with the planning and an attempt to marry off a minor.
Area deputy county commissioner (DCC) Stanley Kimanga said that the traditional marriage ceremony that was being held at Yomo village in the outskirts of Loiyangalzni town was foiled following a tip-off.
Mr. Kimanga told KNA that swift action by a team of law enforcers upon receipt of the intelligence report led to the rescue of the 12-year-old girl whose arrangements to marry her off to a 30-year-old man had been finalized.
The DCC added that an attempt by organizers of the underage marriage ceremony to have the minor sneak out from the homestead was shelved after learning that the relevant authorities had been informed about the illegal activity.
“The team, which also included the local children’s officer, arrived at the scene just as the juvenile from the Turkana community was being whisked away but the officers managed to intercept and rescue the girl,” said the deputy county commissioner.
The suitor identified as Loroo Aesekon (30) had already paid dowry to the parents, which consisted of five camels, one hundred goats and four donkeys, according to preliminary investigations.
The DCC pointed out that the government was keen on protecting children against harmful cultural practices, adding that parents of both parties have also been arrested and are being held at Loiyangalani police station, where they are undergoing interrogation.
The girl was taken to Loiyangalani health centre for medical examination and age assessment and luckily she had not been defiled. She was handed over to World Vision’s local office for care as plans for the next cause of action regarding her welfare progress.
Mr. Kimanga further said that surveillance against the outlawed practice has been enhanced in the area and warned parents of dire consequences if found to engage in actions that contravene the children’s act 2022.
By Sebastian Miriti
