An 85-year-old Swiss national has been arrested in Watamu, Kilifi County, after allegedly defiling a 15-year-old minor.
Police say he was found with the girl in a villa following a public tip-off. The suspect remains in custody pending arraignment, while the victim underwent medical examination.
In a statement posted on Wednesday by DCI Kenya, officers confirmed that “An 85-year-old Swiss national, Gisler Emil Johann, has been arrested in Watamu after allegedly defiling a 15-year-old minor.”
The arrest followed the reporting of a missing child case earlier this month. According to investigators, the case unfolded after the victim’s parents reported her missing on February 1, 2026. Despite efforts to trace her, she could not be found.
Police say a breakthrough came after members of the public provided crucial information.
The DCI stated, “Acting on a tip-off from members of the public that a foreigner was seen with a juvenile in one of Watamu’s villas, police moved swiftly and discovered Gisler with the minor inside the residence.”
Authorities say the suspect was apprehended at the scene.
“The suspect was immediately taken into custody, while the victim was escorted to Gede Sub-County Hospital for medical examination,” the statement added.
The DCI confirmed that the suspect remains behind bars as legal procedures continue. “Gisler remains in police custody undergoing processing pending his arraignment.”
The investigation agency reiterated its position on crimes involving minors, stating that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reaffirms its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities by conducting thorough investigations to ensure that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are held accountable.
The coastal town of Watamu, located in Kilifi County, is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and holiday villas.
The arrest has drawn attention locally, particularly given the age of both the suspect and the alleged victim.
Police have not disclosed further details about the circumstances under which the minor went missing or how long she had been at the villa before officers intervened.
The DCI statement did not specify the charges the suspect is expected to face in court but confirmed that he is awaiting arraignment.
The case reaffirms the role of community reporting in criminal investigations. The DCI emphasised that the arrest was made possible after a tip-off from members of the public. Authorities have encouraged continued vigilance and reporting of suspected crimes.
In its communication, the agency urged members of the public to report information anonymously through its established channels:“#FichuaKwaDCI. Call 0800 722 203 (Toll-free) or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000 to report anonymously. Usiogope!”
The phrase “Usiogope,” meaning “Do not be afraid,” forms part of the DCI’s public awareness campaign encouraging citizens to share information without fear of reprisal.
The minor was taken to Gede Sub-County Hospital for medical examination following the rescue. No further details were provided regarding her condition.
The suspect’s arraignment is expected to follow the completion of processing procedures. Kenyan law treats offences involving minors with particular seriousness, and investigations in such cases often involve medical assessments and witness statements before charges are formally presented in court.
The DCI’s statement concluded by reaffirming its resolve to pursue accountability in cases involving vulnerable victims and to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
As investigations continue, authorities have indicated that updates will be provided through official communication channels.
