KILIFI, Kenya — A primary school teacher in Kilifi County has been arrested in connection with the death of a 15-year-old student who reportedly suffered fatal injuries during corporal punishment.
According to preliminary police reports, the incident occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Gongoni Primary School in Kilifi South Sub-County.
The teacher, identified as Ian Tembo, allegedly ordered Grade 8 students to kneel before administering punishment. Some pupils were caned, while others were reportedly struck on the head.
Among those disciplined was Anestine Dzidza Tunje, who returned home the same afternoon.
The following day, she began complaining of severe headaches, which worsened over the weekend.
She was admitted to Kilifi County Hospital for treatment but died on September 25 despite medical interventions.
The girl’s family reported the incident to authorities two days after her death, prompting an investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Tembo was summoned by police on Wednesday, October 1, and taken into custody at Mtwapa Police Station.
Investigators say they plan to seek additional court orders to extend his detention as inquiries continue.
Kilifi South Sub-County Police Commander Hassan Kochale confirmed the arrest, saying detectives are working to establish a clear link between the punishment and the pupil’s death.
“The suspect is in custody, and we shall be seeking more time from the court to complete our investigations before the matter proceeds to trial,” Kochale said.
The case has raised concerns about the continued use of corporal punishment in schools, which remains a contentious issue despite legal restrictions.
