Police Rescue 9-year-old Kenyan Girl Married Off to 40-Year-Old Man

A nine-year-old girl who had been married off to a 40-year-old man in Narok County has been rescued.

The minor was rescued by police officers from a house belonging to the 40-year-old man identified as John Nchoe.

The suspect was arrested during the operation launched following a tip-off from Narok-based children rights activist Joshua Ole Kaputa. 

Police said the marriage ceremony between the man and the minor was held a week ago at Olooltoto village, Narok North sub-County.

During questioning at Narok Police Station, the suspect wondered why he was apprehended yet the parents of the girl allowed him to marry her after paying dowry.

On the other hand, the girl told police she was opposed to her parents' plan to marry her off since she wanted to pursue her education but her pleas were rejected.

Children rights activist Ole Kaputa said he had warned Nchoe against marrying the girl.

Narok County Police Commander Adam Yunis said the suspect will be arraigned in court as investigations into the incident continue.