The government has issued a stern warning against increasing cases of defilement and goonism in Ndhiwa East, Homa Bay County, saying offenders will face the full force of the law.
Speaking during a public baraza at Pala Koguta Trading Centre, Ndhiwa East Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Mohamed Akida said sexual offences against children must not be tolerated or handled through informal settlements outside the legal system.
Akida described defilement as a serious criminal offence that causes lifelong physical and emotional harm to victims, urging residents to report cases promptly to relevant authorities.
“Cases of defilement must stop. Whoever is found guilty of committing such an offence will strictly face the law. These cases should never be handled like ordinary cases because they leave victims with lifelong physical and emotional scars,” he said.
The administrator expressed concern that some families conceal defilement cases due to stigma or attempts to resolve them privately, warning that such actions deny victims justice and allow offenders to continue committing crimes.
He added that individuals who protect suspects, interfere with investigations or obstruct justice would also face prosecution.
Akida urged parents, teachers, religious leaders and community members to work together to safeguard children, saying every child has a right to grow in a safe environment free from abuse and exploitation.
He encouraged residents to report child abuse, neglect and violence, assuring them that government agencies were committed to protecting victims and ensuring justice.
“Let us work together with security agencies to protect our children and maintain peace,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ndhiwa Sub-County Police Commander John Losia raised concern over the growing problem of goonism, saying criminal gangs were disrupting peace, threatening businesses and encouraging young people to engage in unlawful activities.
Losia urged youth to reject criminal groups and instead pursue education, skills training and lawful employment opportunities.
“Goonism is one of the major problems affecting our people today. I urge our youths to seek legal jobs and engage in productive activities instead of joining criminal groups that only destroy their future,” he said.
The police commander warned that security agencies would intensify operations against individuals involved in gang-related violence, intimidation and other criminal activities.
He called on residents to support law enforcement efforts by providing information that could assist in arresting criminals, noting that effective policing requires cooperation between security agencies and the public.
Losia attributed youth involvement in gangs to factors such as unemployment and peer pressure, urging communities to support mentorship programmes, entrepreneurship and skills development initiatives.
He commended boda boda operators in Ndhiwa East for maintaining discipline and assisting security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
The leaders challenged schools, religious institutions, community organisations and local administrators to strengthen programmes promoting responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence and positive values among young people.
By Sitna Omar
