This archive report was first published on 16 July 2019.
On July 16, 2019, a shocking case of child marriage came to light in Narok County, Kenya.
A 9-year-old girl had been married off to a 40-year-old man, identified as John Nchoe, in a ceremony held at Olooltoto village, Narok North sub-County, just a week prior.
Thanks to a tip-off from children's rights activist Joshua Ole Kaputa, police officers launched an operation to rescue the minor and apprehend the suspect.
During questioning at Narok Police Station, Nchoe expressed confusion, wondering why he was arrested when the girl's parents had allowed him to marry her after paying dowry.
However, the girl herself told police that she had opposed her parents' plan to marry her off, citing her desire to pursue her education.
Activist Ole Kaputa revealed that he had previously warned Nchoe against marrying the girl, and Narok County Police Commander Adam Yunis confirmed that the suspect would be arraigned in court as investigations continue.
