Manhunt launched for man accused of impregnating teenage daughter in Baringo

Police in Baringo County are pursuing a man accused of sexually abusing and impregnating his teenage daughter in a case that has left a family shattered and sparked fresh concern over rising cases of teenage pregnancies in Baringo North.

The alleged abuse, which occurred in Kitibei Village in Saimo Ward, has not only forced the girl out of school but also left her mother homeless and fearing for her life.

According to the girl's account, her father allegedly isolated her from her siblings, showering her with gifts and insisting she accompany him whenever he went to fetch firewood or water.

The girl's mother said she grew suspicious of the relationship and repeatedly questioned her husband, but claimed he responded with threats.

"Usiku baba anatoka namuuliza anaenda wapi……ananitishia maisha anakuwa mbaya, anachukua kisu……" said the mother.

She said she sought help from village elders and the area chief, but her concerns were dismissed, with the father's behaviour attributed to parental affection.

The allegations only came to light after the girl became pregnant and later gave birth.

"Badala ya kuchunga mtoto na kulea anatia mimba….najiuliza mtu atende kitu kama hii ni vizuri kweli?" She posed.

The teenager, now the mother of a two-month-old baby, is staying in a safe house as authorities work to ensure her protection. Her future education remains uncertain.

The incident has sparked outrage among residents, who described it as a gross violation of a child's right to safety.

"We condemn the acts of the man, we condemn incest, we thought home is the safest place for our girls," said a resident, Sylvia Mutai. 

The case has also renewed concern over the rising number of teenage pregnancies in Baringo North.

Lucilla Kandie, a paralegal in Baringo County, said many survivors of sexual abuse in rural areas fail to get justice because such cases are often handled through informal community processes instead of the criminal justice system.

"Zingine wanafanya kwa kangaroo courts. It is the biggest challenge... kwa teen pregnancies Baringo North is leading," she said.

Baringo North OCPD Robert Odongo confirmed that police are pursuing the suspect, who is on the run.