Police in Budalang’i, Busia County, were forced to fire shots into the air to disperse an angry crowd that had gathered in Rukala Village, Bunyala South Ward, following the arrest of a 23-year-old man suspected of participating in the rape of a 117-year-old woman.
The officers intervened to prevent members of the public from attacking the suspect, identified as Joseph Wanga, who was arrested over the shocking incident.
According to Port Victoria Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Pauline Oluoch, the suspect was apprehended by the area chief after allegedly admitting to having raped the elderly woman.
However, Wanga reportedly did not disclose whether he had accomplices in the assault, which police believe may have involved a gang of men.
The incident is said to have occurred on Monday night when a group of men allegedly stormed the elderly woman's home in Rukala Village and sexually assaulted her.
The 117-year-old woman, who reportedly lives alone, was discovered in her bedroom at around 11am in a critical condition after sustaining serious injuries.
She was immediately rushed to Port Victoria Hospital, where she received medical attention.
News of the alleged assault sparked outrage among residents, prompting an angry crowd to gather following the suspect's arrest. Police officers were forced to fire several shots into the air to disperse the crowd and prevent mob justice.
Oluoch confirmed that investigations into the incident were ongoing, with police working to establish whether more people were involved in the attack.
The police boss also appealed to families to avoid isolating elderly relatives, particularly women, saying greater family support and care could help protect vulnerable older people from acts of violence.
She urged anyone with information that could assist investigators in identifying and arresting other suspects to come forward and cooperate with the police.
Oluoch further called on members of the public to support efforts to ensure the elderly woman receives justice.
The 23-year-old suspect is currently being held at Port Victoria Police Station as he awaits arraignment in court.
Police are expected to continue with investigations before presenting him in court to answer to the allegations.
