By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, 3 June 2026 - A Naivasha court has ordered that nine students from Utumishi Girls Academy remain in custody for 21 days to allow investigators to complete forensic examinations into the dormitory fire that killed 16 learners and destroyed property.
The ruling came as authorities intensified investigations into the tragedy, which is now being treated as a possible case of arson and murder.
Chief Magistrate Abdulqadir Ramadhan granted an application by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who argued that critical forensic processes, including DNA testing and other scientific examinations, were yet to be concluded.
The prosecution told the court that investigators require more time to establish the cause of the deadly blaze and determine whether any criminal responsibility can be attached to those under investigation.
State lawyers further submitted that releasing the minors at this stage could interfere with investigations and compromise evidence collection.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Ramadhan agreed with the prosecution, saying continued detention was necessary to facilitate investigations and protect the welfare of the students given the sensitive nature of the case.
The court directed that the nine students be held at Nakuru Children's Home for the entire 21-day period.
The magistrate also ordered that officers from the Children's Department be granted regular and unrestricted access to the minors to ensure their welfare is safeguarded while in custody.
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Further, the court directed that the students be allowed access to legal representation and other necessary support services throughout the detention period.
In a separate order, Chief Magistrate Ramadhan barred members of the media and the public from taking, publishing or sharing photographs and images of the students.
The restriction was issued to protect the privacy of the minors in line with legal provisions governing children involved in court proceedings.
The case will be mentioned on 24 June 2026, when investigators are expected to update the court on the progress of forensic examinations and other lines of inquiry.
The Utumishi Girls Academy fire, which left 16 students dead, remains under active investigation as authorities seek to establish whether the inferno was accidental or the result of deliberate arson.
The court's decision marks a crucial step in the probe into one of the country's deadliest school tragedies, with investigators now racing against time to uncover what sparked the fatal blaze.