NAIVASHA, Kenya — The High Court in Naivasha has issued its first substantive ruling in the case involving students suspected of involvement in the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, which claimed 16 lives and left several others injured.
In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, June 3, the court ordered that the nine minors be held at the Nakuru Children’s Remand Home for 21 days as investigations continue.
The prosecution had applied for a 30-day detention period, arguing that detectives required more time to complete ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the May 28 tragedy. However, the court granted a shorter period, balancing investigative needs with the rights of the minors.
The case has been set for mention on June 24, when investigators are expected to update the court on progress made and seek further directions.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Abdulqadir Lorot noted that the suspects are being investigated for serious offences, including murder and arson, which require careful handling given their gravity and complexity.
The magistrate further observed that the suspects and potential witnesses are known to one another, raising concerns that granting bail at this stage could interfere with investigations or compromise witness testimony.
He therefore declined to release the suspects on bail, stating that their continued detention was necessary both for the integrity of the investigation and for the safety of other students.
Detectives had earlier told the court that the case remained at a sensitive stage, warning that premature release of the suspects could disrupt efforts to reconstruct events leading up to the fire and interfere with key witness accounts.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, the court also restricted media coverage, prohibiting live broadcast of the hearing on the grounds that the suspects are minors and are entitled to protections under Section 220 of the Children’s Act.
The matter arises from a fire incident at Utumishi Girls’ Academy that shocked the country, prompting national mourning and renewed scrutiny of safety standards in boarding schools. Investigators have previously indicated that CCTV footage played a critical role in linking the suspects to the incident, including alleged coordination and execution of the fire.
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The suspects will remain in custody at the Nakuru Children’s Remand Home pending the next court mention, as investigators continue to gather forensic and testimonial evidence.
The development comes amid heightened concern over student safety in boarding schools across the country, following a wave of unrest and fire incidents that have forced several institutions to close temporarily.
As of Wednesday, June 3, more than 10 schools had reportedly been closed, including Lenana School, Loresho Girls, and Senior Chief Koinange School, among others.
In response, the Ministry of Education has launched intensified inspections and enforcement measures across boarding schools nationwide, aimed at ensuring compliance with safety regulations and preventing further incidents.
