By Caroline Katana
Kwale County Police Commander Reginald Omaria has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians who attempt to settle gender-based violence (GBV) cases through family or traditional means instead of following the legal process.
He stated that anyone found obstructing justice in such a manner will face the full force of the law.
Speaking to journalists in his office, Omaria noted that reported cases of rape and defilement in the county remain significantly low compared to what is happening on the ground.
“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 offense and undermines the victims’ right to justice,” Omaria emphasized.
The police commander urged the community to fully cooperate with law enforcement by reporting perpetrators of such violence so that they can be held accountable.
He added that community-government collaboration is a key weapon in eradicating these acts, which have devastated the lives of many children and women.
“The community must 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,” He said.
Omaria’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 is 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.
