Magistrate warns parents against resolving child defilement cases at home

Mwala residents in Machakos County have been warned against resolving child defilement cases at home.

Senior Resident Magistrate in Wamunyu Law Courts in Mwala sub-County Pascal Nabwana said those found doing so will be punished.

Mr Nabwana was speaking on Thursday during the launch of the Child Justice Month at an event held at the court premises.

He said a week hardly passes before a defilement case is brought in the court signaling the worrying trend of the vice in the society.

He took a swipe at some parents who abet the crime by failing to report incidents to the police.

"So far I handle nine(9) or 10 cases of defilement and other forms of child abuse per week. It is sad that child abuse cases are rampant in most villages within this sub-County," he added.

The Senior Resident Magistrate ordered security agencies and chiefs and their assistants to arrest rapists and parents who cover up rape, defilement, and sodomy cases.

Mr Nabwana also called for public education to sensitise people on child abuse and neglect in villages across the sub-county.

He said many cases of child abuse remained unreported as a number of parents chose out-of-court settlements instead of protecting children and their rights.

"Children are the future of Kenya and I am asking residents in this sub-County to avoid settling cases of rape and defilement outside the fomal legal system," he added.

He said responsive measures such as public awareness are crucial to prevent such occurrences.

"It's importance to prevent child abuse and neglect through public education and awareness campaigns. We must educate parents and guardians about children's rights to help them steer clear of abusive situations," he added.

His call comes as cases of rape and defilement are on the rise in the region.