A man identified as Athumani Juma has been sentenced to life imprisonment for sexually assaulting a seven-year-old Grade Two pupil in Kwale County, Kenya.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) announced the sentence in a statement on Sunday, October 25, 2026, following Juma’s conviction at the Msambweni Senior Principal Magistrate’s Court.
According to the DCI, the incident occurred on June 7, 2025, in Vivalani Village, Lungalunga Sub-County, where Juma allegedly lured the child to his house with the promise of sweets before sexually abusing him.
The suspect reportedly threatened the boy against telling anyone about the incident, leaving the child frightened and initially reluctant to disclose what had happened. He reportedly confided in his brothers, while a distressing physical condition later raised concerns.
On June 14, 2025, a relative noticed the child’s condition and sought an explanation. The boy subsequently disclosed the abuse and identified Juma, a water vendor known to him, as the alleged perpetrator.
The matter was reported to the police, while members of the public apprehended the suspect and handed him over to law enforcement officers.
During the trial, five prosecution witnesses testified. Juma denied the allegations, claiming he had been framed. However, the court rejected his defence, finding the child’s testimony credible and consistent, with medical evidence supporting his account.
On October 5, 2026, Juma was convicted of defilement under Section 8(1), read together with Section 8(2), of Kenya’s Sexual Offences Act and sentenced to life imprisonment.
The DCI said the case highlights the importance of thorough investigations, credible witness testimony and medical evidence in securing justice for vulnerable victims.
The agency urged members of the public to report suspected child abuse promptly at the nearest police station or anonymously through its toll-free line on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
It stressed that protecting children is a shared responsibility and that suspected abuse should never be concealed or ignored.
