Three Arrested in Murder of Garissa Girl Who Refused to Marry 55-Year-Old Man
Police have arrested three suspects linked to the brutal murder of 17-year-old Gaala Aden Abdi in Wajir County. The teenage girl was reportedly killed and her body burnt beyond recognition after refusing to marry a 55-year-old man.
Among those arrested is the 55-year-old man who allegedly sought to marry the minor. The National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed the arrests on Saturday, stating that officers acted swiftly to apprehend the key suspects involved in the shocking crime.
“The National Police Service wishes to confirm to the public that following the tragic death of the 17-year-old ‘child bride,’ the police were able to move with speed and apprehend three main suspects, amongst them the purported ‘husband’ to the child,” said Nyaga.
Authorities have launched thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the girl’s murder, with Nyaga emphasizing the need for due process without interference or prejudice.
“NPS deeply regrets this death and condoles with the family of the victim. While investigators must be allowed to piece together all the circumstances that led to this most tragic death, we urge the public to respect the process,” he added.
The police further urged Kenyans to reject harmful cultural practices, particularly those that endanger children.
“We ask the wider Kenyan community to desist from harmful cultural practices while letting children be just that: children,” Nyaga stated.
The three suspects are expected to be arraigned in court once processing is complete. Meanwhile, the police have expressed gratitude to members of the public who shared crucial information leading to the arrests.
“We would also wish to thank all persons of goodwill who were able to widely share leads that culminated in the arrest of the three suspects,” Nyaga added.
Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to upholding justice and ensuring those responsible for the heinous act face the full force of the law.
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Three Arrested in Murder of Garissa Girl Who Refused to Marry 55-Year-Old Man