The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved 16 murder charges against suspects linked to the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that claimed the lives of 16 students.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ODPP said it had reviewed the preliminary investigation file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) following the May 28 fire at the Nakuru County school.
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After assessing the evidence, prosecutors determined there was sufficient basis to charge the implicated students with 16 counts of murder, marking a major development in the investigation into one of Kenya’s deadliest school fire incidents in recent years.
“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has received and reviewed the preliminary inquiry file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations regarding the arson incident that occurred at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County on 28th May 2026,” the ODPP said.
Although nine students were previously arrested in connection with the incident, authorities have not confirmed how many will eventually be charged.
The decision to approve the charges is expected to pave the way for court proceedings in a case that has attracted nationwide attention and sparked renewed debate over school safety, student discipline and accountability.
The ODPP also expressed concern over the increasing number of arson incidents and other criminal acts reported in learning institutions across the country.
The prosecution office warned that anyone found responsible for such offences would face legal consequences and urged students and the public to refrain from engaging in criminal activities.
It further conveyed its condolences to the families of the victims and the Utumishi Girls Academy community, describing the loss of the students as tragic.
The ODPP reiterated that the case will be handled through a fair, impartial and evidence-based prosecution process to ensure justice is served.
The suspects are expected to appear in court in the coming days, with the trial likely to attract significant public attention as discussions continue on improving safety and discipline in Kenyan schools.
