A Form Two student at Our Lady of Mercy Girls Secondary School in Shauri Moyo was allegedly raped in the school’s dormitory toilets yesterday, prompting immediate closure and anxiety among parents and pupils.
Several concerned sources told activist Njeri Wa Migwi that the school was locked down at around 4 am following the incident. According to one report, a man armed with a knife forced his way into the girls’ dormitory and attacked the student as she returned from the toilets.
“Several people reached out to us regarding the closure… from what we hear, a male intruder gained access and assaulted a student,” shared Njeri Wa Migwi in a message on X (formerly Twitter).
Wangu Kanja Foundation, which often supports survivors of gender-based violence, confirmed receiving troubling reports from the school.
Protective steps and official silence
Within hours, the school’s main gate was closed and guards were stationed at the entrance. No official statement has come from the Ministry of Education or local education authorities yet.
Parents gathered near the school, urging the administration for clarity. Some pupils left the premises visibly distressed, speaking in hushed voices about “something that happened in the middle of the night”.
Efforts to reach the school’s principal, were unsuccessful.
Community grief and calls for action
Local residents and campaigners have expressed shock and anger. How the intruder got in and was able to assault a student without being detected left them wondering and urging the police to take action.
Kenyans on X(Twitter) condemned the attack expressing their frustrations on how school systems really failed the girls as they are safe havens for the children.
Next steps
It is understood that police are investigating. They are expected to review CCTV footage and question school staff, dormitory supervisors and any witnesses. The Ministry of Education may also step in to audit the school’s security measures.
Security Concerns
This incident exposes deep concerns about security in boarding schools. With girls most at risk in dormitories during off hours, the alleged assault raises questions about barrier checks, surveillance systems and nighttime supervision.
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