The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed the arrest of six more suspects in connection with the brutal gang rape of a woman in Laare, Igembe North, Meru County.
This comes after the attack, which was filmed and shared on social media, sparked national outrage from Kenyans, including former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who offered a Ksh300,000 reward for any information on the suspects.
DCI, in a statement on Wednesday, December 3, confirmed that officers from Laare Police Station conducted targeted operations in Irinde, Lubwa, and Kiarama, flushing out and arresting six men believed to have taken part in the assault.
Nine arrested in total over gang rape case in Meru
They join three other suspects who were arrested earlier on December 1, the same day the attack took place, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine. All are undergoing processing pending arraignment.
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The attack reportedly occurred in Laare Town during a chaotic traditional circumcision procession involving approximately 100 men.
Police said they received a distress call from the public and rushed to the scene, where they found the woman in severe distress.
“Responding swiftly, officers proceeded to the scene where they found the victim in a state of utter despair; her clothes torn, and her spirit bruised. They escorted her to Nyambene Hospital for medical attention.”
More than ten attackers are believed to have raped her in turns while filming the assault on their phones. Some of the footage was later circulated online, triggering shock, fury, and calls for swift justice across the country. The survivor on her part remains hospitalized and is receiving treatment and counselling.
DCI said the arrests followed an intensive manhunt using forensic leads and coordinated operations across multiple villages. Detectives are still pursuing additional suspects.
“As the investigation unfolds, detectives remain relentlessly focused on identifying and apprehending additional suspects involved in this heinous crime, ensuring that no perpetrator evades justice,” the statement ends.
Mike Sonko offers Ksh300,000 bounty
The Meru gang rape case ignited a national conversation on rampant gender-based violence and the safety of women in public spaces.
Also Read: Sonko Rushes to Kitengela After a Desperate Call From His Daughter
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko was among Kenyans who reacted to the brutality of the incident. Sonko in a video and statement posted online condemned the attack in harsh terms and announced that he launched a high-profile campaign demanding justice. He further offered Ksh300,000 for information leading to arrests.
“What happened to this woman is pure evil,” he said. “A gang of cowards violated her and tried to silence her with threats. I will not allow these beasts to hide or breathe another day freely.”
At the same time, Sonko said he had deployed his private rescue and security team to Meru:
“Let it be known: we are coming for them. They will face justice, and there will be no peace, no escape, and no mercy under the law. Violence against women must end now.”
The former Governor tagged DCI Kenya and FIDA Kenya, urging investigators and women’s rights organizations to intensify efforts to secure justice for the survivor.
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