A police officer was tragically killed in a confrontation with a group of youths after rescuing survivors of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Kenya. The incident, which occurred in Elgeyo Marakwet county in the Rift Valley region, sparked condemnation from activists and local leaders, who viewed it as a setback in the fight against the practice in the country.

The police had rescued a group of girls who had been subjected to the illegal procedure and were transporting them to a hospital when they were attacked by a mob of young men. The officer, Cpl Mushote Boma, was overpowered and stoned to death before his body was burned using a mattress. The girls are currently receiving medical care at a local hospital, as confirmed by county police commander Peter Mulinge.

Female genital mutilation, also known as "the cut," remains illegal in Kenya but continues to be practiced in certain areas, often during school holidays, using crude methods and tools. While attacks on law enforcement officers are rare, there have been instances of activists being targeted by those carrying out FGM.

Tony Mwebia, founder of the Men End FGM Foundation, expressed shock and dismay at the killing of the police officer, emphasizing the need for men to actively oppose FGM and child marriages. He highlighted the misconceptions surrounding the practice and the importance of engaging men in the fight against FGM.

The incident has raised concerns about the enforcement of laws against FGM and the need for comprehensive public awareness campaigns to combat the practice. Despite the challenges, there has been progress in reducing FGM cases in communities where girls have spoken out against the practice. Efforts to engage cultural gatekeepers and change strategies have been emphasized as crucial in the ongoing fight against FGM.

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