Police Warn Parents Against Settling Gender-Based Violence Cases at Home
Kwale County police commander Reginald Omaria. (Photo By Caroline Katana)
By Caroline Katana
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
Kwale County police commander Reginald Omaria has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians who settle gender-based violence (GBV) cases through family or traditional means instead of the legal process.
He stated that anyone found obstructing justice in such a manner would face the full force of the law.
Speaking to journalists in his office, the commander noted that reported cases of rape and defilement remained significantly low compared to what was actually happening on the ground in the county.
“We have evidence that incidents of sexual abuse are still rampant in rural areas, but some families choose to stay silent or resolve the issues privately. This is a criminal offence and undermines the victims’ right to justice,” he added.
The police boss urged the community to fully cooperate with law enforcers by reporting perpetrators of such violence so that they could be held accountable.
According to him community-government collaboration is key in eradicating the violent acts which have devastated the lives of many a children and women.
“The community has a duty to protect victims and ensure justice is served. Let us not fear speaking out, because our silence only empowers the perpetrators to continue with their cruelty.”
The commander’s remarks were echoed by local civil society organizations and human rights activists, who called on the government to intensify awareness campaigns and provide psychological support to survivors.
For the people of Kwale and beyond, the message was clear; gender-based violence should never be ignored.
Everyone has a responsibility to ensure that offenders are brought to justice and that victims receive the protection and support they deserve.
