By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
Kenya, May 31, 2026 - Police have launched a manhunt for a previously released suspect believed to be linked to the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School that claimed the lives of 16 students, as investigations into the suspected arson attack gather pace.
In a press statement on Sunday, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said further analysis of CCTV footage, conducted in collaboration with teachers, had enabled investigators to confirm the identities of seven students who allegedly participated in the arson before fleeing the scene.
“Of the eight suspects previously arrested, six have been positively identified and confirmed through the footage. The seventh identified student was among those earlier released to her parents and is currently not in custody. Efforts are currently underway to trace and arrest her,” the DCI said in a statement.
The DCI described the development as a major breakthrough in the investigation following forensic analysis of CCTV footage recovered from the scene and reviewed at the DCI headquarters.
The agency also said post-mortem examinations conducted on the 16 students at Naivasha Sub-County Referral Hospital Mortuary confirmed that all died as a result of severe burns.
The Kenya Red Cross continues to provide psychological support to bereaved families, who have been allowed to view the bodies of their loved ones.
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“DNA reference samples were also collected from the families of the deceased students to facilitate formal identification of the remains, which was necessitated by the extent of the burns,” the statement added.
While conveying condolences to the bereaved families, relatives, friends and the school community, the DCI thanked them for their cooperation throughout the investigation.
“We particularly appreciate parents and students who have actively assisted investigators by providing statements and supporting the review of evidence. We urge anyone with information that may assist the ongoing investigation to come forward,” the DCI said.
The DCI added that it remains committed to conducting a thorough, professional and impartial inquiry to deliver justice for the victims and their families.
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