NAIROBI, Kenya – Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has revealed that two teachers at Utumishi Girls School in Gilgil had prior information about planned unrest by a section of Form Three students before the deadly dormitory fire that killed 16 learners.
In a statement, Ogamba said the teachers failed to take appropriate action despite being alerted about the planned disturbance before the incident occurred.
Preliminary investigations, according to the CS, have established that the fire was an act of arson.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations is currently holding and questioning eight learners, who are persons of interest in the investigation. The investigation will ascertain their individual roles in the planning and execution of this heinous act,” Ogamba said.
“Those found culpable will be charged in accordance with the provisions of the Penal Code and other relevant laws,” he added.
The CS further revealed that early findings had exposed major safety breaches at the school, including overcrowding in the dormitory and a locked exit door during the fire.
According to Ogamba, the institution failed to comply with safety requirements outlined in the School Safety Manual and Basic Education Regulations.
“In particular, there was congestion in the dormitory, and one exit door was locked, contrary to the prescribed safety requirements,” he said.
The tragedy also left 79 students injured, with seven still admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital receiving treatment. The rest have since been treated and discharged.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the deceased students were transferred to Naivasha Sub-County Hospital mortuary for preservation and DNA identification.
“Parents and guardians are therefore being directed to the facility for purposes of the DNA testing,” Ogamba said.
Authorities say investigations into the cause of the fire and possible negligence by responsible officers are still ongoing, with further action expected once inquiries are complete.
