A Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, has successfully rescued a minor who was forced into marriage with an elderly man claiming to be 46 years old. The rescue operation took place late at night in the Kasarani area of Nairobi following distress reports from concerned neighbors and a security guard.
Rescue Operation Details
Mosiria led the raid on the premises where the 14-year-old girl was found living with Abdigafar Ahmed Yusuf. Investigations revealed disputed documents and altered identity records. The man reportedly married the girl when she was 12 years old in 2024. The suspect is currently in custody as police widen the probe into alleged forced marriage and family involvement.
Distress Calls Prompted Action
Mosiria's team received distress calls from neighbors and a security guard reporting that the child had been crying continuously at night. This prompted an immediate raid on the premises, where the minor was found living with Yusuf.
Background of the Victim
The Mandera-based girl is reportedly Ethiopian, and according to officials, she has no relatives in Kenya apart from an uncle who is alleged to have sold her. Her mother is also reportedly based in Ethiopia. The girl told officials that the arrangement had been made by her mother, who is reportedly a friend of the suspect.
Suspect's Justification
In a video shared after the rescue, Mosiria confronted the suspect, who attempted to justify the arrangement by citing religion and tradition. “According to our religion and Somali traditions, a girl is married after reaching an age ripe for marriage, even as early as 9 years,” the man said, adding that he believed the child was already mature enough for marriage.
Evidence of Document Alteration
Investigations at the scene also revealed documents indicating that the girl’s birth certificate had allegedly been altered to reflect the suspect as her father. The man also presented a handwritten document he claimed served as a marriage certificate.
Health Concerns
Authorities further noted that the child is suspected to be pregnant, though this is yet to be confirmed. The girl was also found to be showing signs of a possible oral infection, and she is currently receiving medical attention alongside psychosocial support. She is unable to communicate in English or Kiswahili and only speaks Somali, forcing Mosiria's team to rely on a translator during interviews.
Official Statements
Mosiria confirmed that the suspect is currently being held at Kasarani Police Station while the child has been placed at a rescue centre where she is receiving care and protection. “I strongly warn against the practice of forcing underage girls into marriage, which denies them their right to education, safety, and a dignified childhood. Children are not objects of exploitation and must be protected at all costs,” Mosiria said.
“Any individual involved in marrying or cohabiting with an underage child must immediately desist and ensure the child is returned to a safe environment. Failure to do so will result in firm legal action in accordance with the law,” he added.
Further Arrests Expected
Mosiria further indicated that the child’s mother is expected to be arrested pending ongoing investigations. He raised concern over claims used to justify underage marriage in some communities, warning against misinterpretation of religious teachings to support exploitation of minors. Mosiria pledged full justice for the girl, saying he will follow the case through to its conclusion.
