Chief Inspector Raimbert Muronga has called on residents to speak out against child marriages and related abuses, warning that silence only perpetuates the problem.
Addressing the public in Nkurenkuru on Monday, Muronga said many cases remain hidden due to cultural silence and fear. He urged community members to report such incidents immediately to assist law enforcement in protecting minors.
His remarks followed the arrest of two suspects in connection with an alleged child marriage in Ncaute village, Ncuncuni Constituency. Police say a 26-year-old Angolan national allegedly entered into an arrangement with the mother of a 14-year-old schoolgirl, promising to support her education in exchange for living with her.
The mother allegedly consented to the arrangement and allowed the girl to cohabit with the man. Both have since been arrested and are expected to appear in court.
Muronga strongly condemned the practice, warning that early child marriages contribute to teenage pregnancies, rape, and gender-based violence.
“This is the first case where two suspects have been arrested for early child marriage in Kavango West, but there are many more incidents that go unreported. We urge community members not to remain silent,” he said.
