A tragic case of parental discipline gone wrong has shocked residents of Mathare slums in Nairobi, after a Form Two student died hours after being assaulted by her own father over claims she spent two nights away from home without permission.
The teenage girl, who was a learner at a senior secondary school in Mathare North, reportedly returned home on Friday evening, where her father and two brothers confronted her over her alleged absence.
According to neighbours, the family members launched a violent assault on the girl in what they described as an attempt to “discipline” her. Fearing for her life, the girl escaped and sought refuge at her aunt’s house within the same neighbourhood.
However, the enraged group reportedly followed her there and continued beating her.
Moments later, the girl collapsed and died from the injuries sustained during the assault.
Following her death, the suspects fled the scene, triggering panic among residents. Police officers later arrested the girl’s 43-year-old father from a nearby house. He is currently being held in custody pending further investigations and possible murder charges.
The girl’s body was moved to the mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected to establish the exact cause of death.
Police have strongly condemned the incident, warning parents and guardians against the use of corporal punishment, which is illegal both at home and in schools. Authorities noted a worrying rise in cases where excessive punishment has resulted in serious injuries or death.
“This kind of punishment is outlawed, and those found culpable will face the full force of the law,” police said.
