Ten girls have been arrested in Giika, Meru County, on suspicion of undergoing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Gerevasio Mucheke, the area chief, reported that during a local administration operation, the girls' parents were also apprehended, while two other suspects remain at large.

The girls, aged between 10 and 16, were discovered through a WhatsApp group where messages revealed they had undergone the procedure.

"This has truly shocked us, as we cannot understand why anyone would revert to such a barbaric practice. We have also arrested the woman responsible for performing the procedure," said Mucheke.

Assistant Chief Anaclate Mutwiri of Marega Sub-Location stated, "Out of 17 girls, it has been confirmed that 10 were subjected to the procedure. This is something we have not witnessed in our community for many years."

Ezra Muchai, a local resident and teacher, added, "We want to warn anyone considering this that we will report you to the authorities. This practice carries significant harm and disadvantages."