In a landmark ruling, a Mombasa court has found Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) officer George Odhiambo Owino guilty of defiling a 16-year-old girl in Likoni. The court’s decision comes after a harrowing testimony revealed the officer’s manipulation and exploitation of the victim, who was promised financial support for her education.
The court heard that between July 3 and November 16, 2020, Owino seduced the minor, enticing her with promises to pay her school fees if she became his girlfriend. The victim testified that they engaged in sexual acts multiple times at her home while her mother was away, leading to her pregnancy; a responsibility Owino later admitted but failed to support adequately.
Evidence presented in court detailed how Owino preyed on the girl while sending her younger siblings away, taking advantage of their isolation. The victim discovered her pregnancy around August 2020 and gave birth in April 2021. Despite acknowledging his role in the situation, Owino only provided Ksh.10,000 and subsequently ceased all support.
In his defense, Owino claimed ignorance of the girl’s age, suggesting their relationship was consensual because of her physical maturity. However, the court dismissed these claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting minors from predatory behavior. The court found Owino guilty of defilement under Section 8(1) as read with Section 8(4) of the Sexual Offences Act of 2006 and committing an indecent act with a child under Section 11(1) of the same act. This case highlights the urgent need for stronger protections for vulnerable individuals against sexual exploitation and abuse.
