In a landmark ruling, the Kilifi Law Courts have sentenced David Katana Karisa and Charles Nyoka Hamisi to 10 years imprisonment each for gang defilement, with an additional 1-year sentence for threatening to kill a 14-year-old boy with a mental disability — both sentences to run concurrently.
Delivering the judgment, Principal Magistrate Hon. D. Wasike condemned the brutality of the crime, noting the accused “took advantage of the victim’s mental capabilities” and committed a “heinous act” that left the minor physically and psychologically scarred.
“While the court has considered the youth and potential mental limitations of the accused persons, the law must act decisively to protect our most vulnerable — especially children,” Magistrate Wasike stated.
The prosecution revealed that on various dates in July and August 2023, in Roka location, Kilifi North Sub-County, the accused — acting with others not yet before the court — defiled and threatened to kill the minor during broad daylight.
The 14-year-old victim, who lives with a mental disability, suffered severe trauma, according to testimony and medical reports presented during the trial.
Prosecutor Nancy Njeru pushed for a maximum custodial sentence, arguing that a stern penalty was necessary to deter future perpetrators of similar crimes, especially those targeting vulnerable children.
“This sentence must send a clear message — that there is no place in society for those who prey on the weak,” Njeru told the court.
In addition to the sentencing, the court granted a two-year psychosocial support order for the victim, to be supervised by the Probation and Aftercare Department, aimed at assisting his recovery and reintegration.
This case adds to growing public concern over sexual violence against children with disabilities, a demographic often overlooked and under-protected. Rights advocates have called for more stringent safeguarding measures, as well as community education and reporting systems to break the culture of silence around such crimes.
by Kelly Were
