DPP orders DCI to probe Maai Mahiu child sex trafficking claims within 7 days
The BBC documentary, which has drawn wide public attention, exposed the plight of minors allegedly trapped in a web of sexual exploitation in Maai Mahiu.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has seven days to investigate and submit a full report on alleged child sex trafficking in Maai Mahiu for review and possible prosecution, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has said.
In a statement on Thursday, the ODPP said it had taken note of a recent documentary aired by the BBC, titled “Madam: Exposing Kenya’s Child Sex Trade”, which revealed disturbing allegations of sexual trafficking and exploitation of minors in Maai Mahiu, Nakuru County.
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“The content of this documentary has understandably triggered widespread public concern. The allegations point to serious violations of children’s rights and may amount to grave criminal offences under Kenyan law,” the ODPP said.
The agency affirmed its constitutional mandate to prosecute all offences, including those involving human rights violations and crimes against children, noting that Kenya’s Constitution guarantees children’s rights to protection from abuse, neglect, harmful cultural practices and all forms of violence and exploitation.
“Article 53 of the Constitution of Kenya guarantees the rights of children, including protection from abuse, neglect, harmful cultural practices, and all forms of violence and exploitation,” the Office said.
“Given the seriousness of the claims presented, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), pursuant to Article 157(4) of the Constitution, has directed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to immediately undertake a thorough and comprehensive investigation and submit the resulting investigation file to the ODPP within seven (7) days for review and appropriate prosecutorial action.”
The ODPP assured the public of its commitment to discharging its mandate in line with the law, the public interest, and the proper administration of justice.
The BBC documentary, which has drawn wide public attention, exposed the plight of minors allegedly trapped in a web of sexual exploitation in Maai Mahiu, renewing calls for accountability and urgent protection measures for vulnerable children.
DCI launched a multi-agency probe into the allegations on Wednesday, deploying a multi-agency team, including officers from the Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit (AHTCPU), to the region as part of efforts to arrest perpetrators and rescue victims.
“The National Police Service (NPS) has taken note of the BBC Africa Eye documentary titled ‘Madams: Exposing Kenya’s Child Sex Trade’. We recognise the urgency and gravity of the issues raised and are treating them with the seriousness they deserve,” NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said.
Nyaga added that statements had already been taken from three persons of interest, and immediate steps had been taken to identify, rescue and support the affected children.
“Investigations are ongoing, with the aim of arresting and prosecuting the perpetrators,” he said.
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