Police in Homa Bay County have arrested five boys in connection with the alleged gang rape of a Form Three girl in Kobuya village, Rangwe Sub-County.
According to the County Police Commander, the incident was reported last week after the girl confided in a relative. The suspects, all believed to be known to the victim and from the surrounding area, are in custody pending investigations. Their ages and schools have not been disclosed as they are minors.
The case file has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for direction.
A wider problem
The arrest comes as Homa Bay continues to record some of the highest GBV cases in the country. Data from the Kenya Health Information System and FIDA-Kenya shows the county recorded over 1,200 GBV cases in 2023 and 2024, with teenage girls making up more than 40% of survivors.
Experts cite poverty, school drop-outs, and a “culture of silence” in rural areas as key drivers. In many cases, perpetrators are known to the victim.
Legal and community split
Because the suspects are minors, they are likely to face trial in a children’s court focused on rehabilitation, not the life sentences provided under the Sexual Offences Act for gang rape.
The case has divided Kobuya residents. Some are demanding jail time, while others are calling for counseling.
The girl is receiving medical care and psycho-social support. NGOs say a case worker has been assigned to help her remain in school, as stigma often forces teenage survivors to drop out.
Police say investigations are ongoing.
Ends..
Note: Names of the minor victim and suspects withheld in line with the Children Act.
