The National Police Service has announced that it has launched a full-scale investigation into a child exploitation ring following shocking revelations made in the BBC Africa Eye documentary titled "Madams: Exposing Kenya's Child Sex Trade".
The exposé, which aired this week, uncovered disturbing instances of child sexual exploitation in Maai Mahiu.
The BBC Africa Eye investigation has revealed how girls as young as 13 years are being trafficked for sex in Kenya, with the help of women known as "madams".
In swift response, Inspector General Douglas Kanja ordered the deployment of a multi-agency team, including officers from the specialised Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit (AHTCPU) in the county and neighbouring counties.
The team has already arrived in Maai Mahiu and begun preliminary actions, including gathering intelligence and interviewing persons of interest.
So far, three individuals have recorded statements as persons of interest in connection with the exploitation network. Authorities are also working to identify, rescue, and support vulnerable children who may have been caught up in the abuse.
The NPS has also raised concerns about the growing threat of online child sexual exploitation, noting that a forensic cybercrime unit—linked directly to Interpol's International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database—has been established to trace digital footprints of abuse.
''In line with Article 53(1) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 8 of the Children Act (2022), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is fully committed to ensuring that all reported cases of child trafficking, sexual abuse, exploitation, and related crimes are thoroughly investigated, guaranteeing that every child grows up safely and has the opportunity to thrive. We must reaffirm a fundamental tenet: that our children are our future,'' read part of the statement read in part.
''We also recognise the growing threat of online child sexual exploitation, which prompted the establishment of a dedicated forensic cybercrime unit – the first of its kind in Africa – linked directly to INTERPOL's International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database.''
This cyber unit, the first of its kind in Africa, works closely with global partners, including the Victim Identification Network (VIN), enabling the timely identification and rescue of children featured in abusive digital content.
Police have urged the public to play an active role in dismantling such criminal networks by reporting suspicious activities.
