Police in Kisumu have arrested a woman who allegedly scalded her 17-year-old son with boiling water after he reportedly stole and sold 2 kilograms of maize from their home in Manyatta, Kisumu County. The incident occurred in the Kondele area, where authorities are currently investigating the case.
The young boy, a Form Three student at St. Loyola Magadi Secondary School, sustained severe burn injuries from the attack and was rushed to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) for treatment. His condition remains critical as medical professionals work to stabilize him.
According to local officials, the woman, who has been identified as the boy’s mother, was taken into custody on Thursday evening. Kondele Location Chief Maurice Ajwang confirmed that the mother admitted to boiling water and pouring it on her son as a form of punishment for the alleged theft of the maize. This extreme form of discipline has shocked many in the community, and the police have vowed to take strict legal action in the case.
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident. While the mother has confessed to the crime, further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. The police are also looking into whether the incident is part of a larger pattern of abuse or if there are underlying factors that led to such a drastic response from the mother.
The case has drawn widespread concern, with many residents of Kisumu County expressing outrage over the brutal treatment of the teenager. The community has been left shaken by the event, as it highlights ongoing issues related to child abuse and the need for stronger child protection measures. The police and local officials are urging the public to report any signs of abuse or mistreatment to authorities, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable children from harm.
In addition to the investigation into the mother’s actions, authorities have pledged to ensure that the boy’s family receives the necessary support during this difficult time. Social services have been alerted to assess the boy’s home environment and determine if there are any other factors contributing to the abuse. If necessary, interventions will be made to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.
This case is not isolated, as there have been increasing reports of child abuse incidents across Kenya, particularly in cases where parents resort to violent forms of punishment in an attempt to discipline their children. The use of corporal punishment and physical abuse remains a contentious issue in many communities, with child rights organizations continuing to push for legal reforms and better enforcement of existing laws designed to protect children from harm.
As the investigation into this particular incident unfolds, authorities have assured the public that appropriate legal actions will be taken based on the findings. The mother remains in police custody, and the case will be brought before the courts for further proceedings. It is hoped that this case will serve as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that children are treated with care and respect, and that abusive behavior is addressed swiftly to prevent further harm.
