Woman’s swollen stomach a reminder of rape by police

• Military operation to flush out militias in Mt Elgon still haunts residents to date

“Just see the level of poverty staring at us. I have surrendered to fate since I do not have money to hire a lawyer leave alone feed the family,” she said. However, she says she will appreciate any help to seek justice.

Like other local residents, she was reluctant to openly talk about the violence committed by either the militia or security until her health deteriorated.

“Every one in the area knows what took place but none is willing to speak out because of fear. There are a lot of women who were raped while others lost their next of kin or property yet they are suffering in silence,” said Violet Chesang who was arrested alongside Grace.

She said the mistreatment by the policemen has continued to haunt her and will take long to shake off.

“Although peace has returned in the area, the healing process will take long considering what some of us went through at the hands of the security personnel and the militia groups,” said Mrs Chesang.

A relative who now takes care of Grace confesses that meeting the daily needs of the extended family is an up-hill task.

Assist her

“We have no otherwise but to assist her despite the high level of poverty affecting us,” she said.

Claims of torture by the security personnel during operation in the district were raised by Prime Minister Raila Odinga and legislator Fred Kapondi who demanded action against those behind the atrocities.

The militia group was also accused of torturing the locals by chopping off their ears. Some of the victims especially in Chebyuk, Kaptakweny and Emia locations are still nursing the wounds but are afraid to skeak out due to fears of attack by remnants of the militia group.

But as other community members rejoice the return of peace, Grace is optimistic of regaining her health and the rapists made to face the law.