The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an in-depth investigation into a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, that claimed the lives of 16 students.
According to a press release issued by the National Police Service, the fire broke out on Thursday, May 28, 2026, prompting a swift multi-agency emergency response. Authorities confirmed that a specialized investigation team, led by the Director of Homicide, has since taken over the case.
The emergency response involved coordinated efforts from several agencies, including the Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Red Cross Society, National Disaster Management Unit, and local government officials. Their intervention ensured rescue operations were conducted and the scene secured for further forensic examination.
Preliminary findings indicate that the fire severely damaged the first floor of the Melino Waithera Dormitory, a two-storey building, while the ground floor remained largely intact. The affected section housed multiple cubicles with a capacity of over 100 students.
Investigators have recovered all 16 bodies from the scene, which have been transferred to Naivasha Sub-county Referral Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examinations and identification.
In a significant development, preliminary investigations have identified eight students as persons of interest in connection with the planning and execution of the suspected arson attack. The eight girls have since been arrested and are currently in police custody as detectives continue recording statements and analysing evidence to establish the full circumstances and motive.
The DCI stated that forensic experts, including crime scene investigators and DNA specialists, are actively processing evidence to determine the cause of the fire and reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
Authorities have assured the public of a thorough and transparent investigation as families and the school community mourn the devastating loss.
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