This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
Published on September 9, 2019, a woman in Igembe North, Meru County, was forcefully circumcised by a group of people following a protracted family dispute.
According to Igembe North County Police Commander Apollo Busolo, a man and his wife, Zipporah Kathao and Joseph Ntarangwi, are being held in custody as investigations continue into the Wednesday incident.
The victim, who is admitted at Mutuati Sub County Hospital, was attacked by a group of people who forcibly circumcised her. She was blindfolded, muzzled, and her legs tied before she was cut.
The victim recounted, "They had started threatening me saying they would discipline me by circumcision. When they released me, I realised my private parts were bleeding. It is then my husband came and rushed me to hospital."
Maendeleo ya Wanawake Meru County treasurer Jennifer Kathure accused administrators and the police of trying to divert justice. She claimed a police officer who was tasked with recording a statement from the victim made her to sign blank papers.
Anti FGM activist Catherine Thiakunu condemned the incident and called for prosecution of the perpetrators. She stated, "Igembe North has become notorious for the criminal act. We are yet to see the arrest of suspects in the case where a 14-year-old girl died this year after undergoing FGM. We want to see action taken against those promoting FGM."
