Two police officers have been arrested in Meru County over the alleged defilement of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl.

The two officers, both police constables, are attached to Kinjo Police Patrol Base. They were taken into custody at Kariene Police Station on Sunday, October 11, according to Citizen Digital.

The allegations have not been tested in court, and the two officers are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Investigation under way

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Imenti Central Sub-County are leading the investigation. Police reports say the girl's mother raised the alarm on the evening of Friday, October 9, and the child later received medical care, where a P3 form was completed as part of the evidence.

Investigators processed the scene and recovered items for forensic examination. Police also say an identification parade was conducted at Kariene Police Station.

Next steps in court

The two officers are expected to be presented before the Githongo Law Courts. Prosecutors plan to seek orders to hold them for longer while detectives complete their inquiries. Reports did not give a date for the court appearance or say what charges will formally be filed.

Under the Sexual Offences Act, defilement of a child aged 11 or below carries a sentence of life imprisonment on conviction.

Officers under scrutiny

The case adds to concerns about police officers accused of serious crimes. Complaints of misconduct against officers can also be filed with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which oversees police conduct.

Child protection advocates have long urged families to report suspected abuse quickly and to seek medical care for affected children without delay. Cases of child abuse can be reported free of charge to Childline Kenya on 116, or at any police station.

Hamasta Media has withheld details that could identify the child, in line with Kenyan law and ethical guidelines on reporting on minors.

Photo: Sila101 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0