DPP approves murder charges against Utumishi girls over fire incident
By Emmanuel Rono, June 23, 2026The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved murder charges against students implicated in the deadly arson incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County that claimed 16 lives.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) said the decision was reached after reviewing a preliminary inquiry file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) concerning the tragedy that occurred on May 28, 2026.
“Upon careful assessment of the evidence, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved charges against the implicated students. The persons of interest will face sixteen (16) counts of murder arising from the incident,” the statement read.
Growing trend on arson
The prosecution agency expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of arson attacks and other criminal acts in learning institutions across the country, warning that those found responsible would face the full force of the law.
“The DPP expresses deep concern over the recent increase in reported incidents of arson and other related acts of criminal conduct in educational institutions across the country. We wish to caution students and members of the public that individuals found culpable of such criminal offences of this nature will be held accountable in accordance with the law,” the ODPP stated.
The office also conveyed its condolences to the families of the victims, friends and the wider school community affected by the tragedy.
“The Office remains committed to ensuring justice through a fair, impartial, and evidence-based prosecution process,” the statement added.
Utumishi students detained
Naivasha Magistrates’ Court, in a ruling delivered by the Chief Magistrate Abdulqadir Lorot on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, had detained nine Utumishi Girls’ Academy students for 21 days to allow the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to complete investigations into the fire incident.
The court had noted that it was persuaded that the respondents (nine students) ought to be detained as prayed by the DCI.
However, Magistrate Lorot stated that he shortened the 30 days that had been sought and granted the investigators 21 days instead to conclude investigations to determine whether they will be charged.
“I now allow the application; the nine respondents, persons of interest, will be detained at Nakuru Children Remand Home for a period of 21 days from today,” Chief Magistrate Lorot ruled.
Lorot noted that the most compelling reason to deny the minors bail and bond is to ensure their safety and security, noting that there could be an outpouring of rage from the victims’ families, adding that it is not far-fetched that some have thought of revenge.