Kenya arrests eight students following deadly dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy
The National Police Service has detained eight pupils as persons of interest in connection with the blaze, which destroyed part of a dormitory housing 135 bunk beds.
Kenyan authorities have arrested eight students in connection with a suspected arson attack at the Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, an incident that claimed the lives of 16 pupils. The fire broke out in the early hours of Thursday morning, tearing through the upper floor of a dormitory block that contained 135 bunk beds.
The National Police Service identified the eight individuals as persons of interest following a forensic review of CCTV footage and interviews with staff and students. Police stated that the suspects were traced to their homes and brought back to the school for detention. The investigation initially recalled 30 students for questioning, while other students who had remained in the area were also tracked down and detained.
Gilgil is located approximately 120km north-west of the capital, Nairobi. While the National Police Service has confirmed the arrests, investigations into the exact cause of the blaze remain ongoing, and the incident is currently classified as a suspected arson attack.
The tragedy has reignited concerns regarding safety protocols in Kenyan boarding schools. Historical data indicates that school fires in the region have frequently resulted in high casualty rates due to overcrowding and failures to adhere to safety guidelines, such as keeping exits clear and windows unlocked.
Past incidents have also highlighted issues with student unrest. Two years ago, at least 21 people died in a dormitory fire in central Kenya. In previous cases, many fires have been attributed to arson by disgruntled pupils protesting discipline and living conditions, although accidental causes have also been recorded.
