The Naivasha Law Courts has granted an application by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to detain nine students from Utumishi Girls Academy for 21 days to facilitate investigations into a suspected arson attack that claimed the lives of 16 students and caused extensive destruction of property.
In a ruling delivered on Wednesday June 3, 2026, the court agreed with the prosecution’s submissions that investigations into possible arson and murder charges are still ongoing and require additional time to be completed.
The prosecution told the court that key forensic processes, including DNA analysis and other scientific examinations, have not yet been finalized, making continued detention necessary to allow investigators to complete their work.
State counsel further argued that detaining the minors would help preserve the integrity of the investigations while also ensuring their safety and welfare, given the sensitivity of the case and the significant public interest it has attracted.
The court directed that the nine students be held at the Nakuru Children’s Home during the detention period. It also ordered that they be granted regular and unrestricted access to officers from the Children’s Department to safeguard their rights and well-being.
Chief Magistrate Abdulqadir Ramadhan further barred members of the media and the public from taking, publishing, sharing or disseminating images of the students. The order seeks to protect the privacy of the minors and ensure compliance with legal provisions governing children’s matters.
Additionally, the court directed that the students be accorded access to legal representation and any other necessary support services throughout the proceedings.
The case will be mentioned on June 24, 2026, when the court is expected to receive an update on the progress of investigations and issue further directions.
The development comes amid growing concern over student safety and discipline in secondary schools across the country.
In recent weeks, several learning institutions have been forced to close indefinitely following cases of student unrest, raising fresh questions about school security, student welfare and the effectiveness of measures put in place to prevent violence and destruction of property in schools.
