By Gerald Mutethia
Nine men accused of gang-raping a 30-year-old woman in Laare town, Igembe North, on December 1 have been arraigned at the Maua Magistrate’s Court.
The suspects appeared before Chief Magistrate Felix Kombo, where investigators from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) requested more time to finalize their probe and pursue additional suspects. The court granted detectives a seven-day custodial order to continue holding the nine as investigations proceed.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) was also admitted into the case as an interested party, represented by Meru Branch Chair Michael Ngunjiri.
The incident has triggered strong condemnation from leaders, who described the assault as evidence of moral decline and the normalization of violence against women.
Meru Woman Representative aspirant Nkirote Biriri said the attack reflects a society that still treats the humiliation of women as entertainment.
“I am heartbroken and deeply disturbed over the inhumane act. I implore all leaders to do more to strengthen laws that punish perpetrators and bystanders who enable violence, expand protections and safe reporting channels for survivors, and invest in programs that teach boys and men responsibility, respect, and intervention,” Biriri said. She urged police to ensure the suspects face the full force of the law.
Meru Senator Kathuri Murungi commended the swift response by officers in Laare and called for complete justice for the survivor, who is receiving care at Nyambene Level 4 Hospital in Maua.
“Justice must take its full course. My prayers are with the survivor as she begins her recovery,” he said.
According to police, the attack occurred during a traditional circumcision procession. Officers were alerted after a distress call from members of the public, who directed them to the scene where the woman was found in critical distress, her clothes torn and visibly traumatized. She was rushed to hospital for treatment.
Later that day, detectives tracked and arrested the nine suspects during coordinated raids in Irinde, Lubwa, and Kiarama villages, where they were hiding.
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities promising swift and decisive action to ensure every perpetrator involved in the assault is brought to justice.
