The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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At least 29 boarding schools in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, have been shut down after a spate of arson attacks disrupted learning just weeks into the third term.
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Police have so far arrested 25 students suspected of orchestrating the incidents, which investigators believe were planned during the recent school holidays. Authorities say the suspects may have used social media platforms to coordinate the attacks, citing grievances over strict school rules and exam regulations.
Among the institutions affected are Mururia Boys’ High School, Ucekeini Girls, Gathiru Boys, and Muhoho Boys, where dormitories and other facilities were destroyed by fire, forcing indefinite closure.
Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe said the decision to shut all boarding schools in the area was taken as a precaution to prevent further damage.
“We had intelligence that these fires were organized on social media. To avoid more losses, we opted to send the students home while we work on a solution,” he explained.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over the probe, with the arrested students expected to face charges in court on Monday.
Parents have voiced concern over the destruction and financial strain caused by the fires.
“Children’s belongings, including boxes and bedding, have been destroyed. We will bear the costs, but hope not to be unfairly charged for damages,” one parent said.
Education stakeholders now warn that the closures could affect the academic calendar and preparations for national exams, urging swift reconstruction and stricter preventive measures to avert future incidents.
