Laare, Meru County — Police in Laare, Igembe North, have arrested six additional suspects in connection with a gang rape incident reported on December 1, 2025, bringing the total number of arrests to nine.
The incident came to light after members of the public raised an alarm upon finding a young woman being assaulted by a group of men allegedly participating in a traditional circumcision procession. Officers from Laare Police Station responded immediately, rescuing the victim and rushing her to Nyambene Hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment.
According to authorities, the six suspects — Dennis Mwirigi, Ismael Gichuge, Elijah Muriki, Isaac Ntomauta, Joseph Marete, and Phineas Mutali — were apprehended during coordinated early-morning raids in Irinde, Lubwa and Kiarama areas. They join three others who had been arrested earlier the same day as part of an ongoing multi-agency operation.
Police say investigations are far from over and expect to make additional arrests as they continue tracking other members of the group believed to have taken part in the assault.
Human rights activist Kathure Thiakunu, director of the Jelida Foundation, commended law enforcement for what she termed a “rare display of urgency and accountability” in a region where such cases have historically gone unpunished
The incident has reignited calls for stricter oversight of cultural rites that expose women and girls to heightened risks of sexual violence. Community leaders are urging residents to cooperate with police as the investigation continues.
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