The Inspector-General of the National Police Service, Douglas Kanja, has expressed sorrow following the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy on May 28, 2026, which left several students dead and others injured.

In a condolence message addressed to parents, relatives, friends, and the school community, Kanja said the National Police Service was “deeply heartbroken” by the loss of young lives, describing the incident as a devastating blow to the country.

“These young souls were the hope and future of our nation, and their passing leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts and in our society,” he said.

The police chief extended sympathies to families who lost loved ones and wished a quick recovery to students who sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.

Investigations

He assured the public that the National Police Service has launched a thorough and professional investigation into the cause of the fire, noting that officers and counselling teams have been deployed to support affected families and the school community.

“Please know that the National Police Service stands firmly with you. We are committed to providing all the necessary support during this trying period, including conducting a thorough and professional investigation into the cause of the fire so that such a tragedy is prevented in the future. Our officers and counselling teams are available to assist you in any way possible, ” Kanja said.

Utumishi fire incident

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted into the tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, which has left the nation in mourning, with the deaths of 16 students and scores of others injured.

Murkomen confirmed that emergency response and investigative agencies have already been deployed to the scene, led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), crime scene investigators, and officers from the Government Chemist.

The Kenya Red Cross has confirmed that at least one hundred and thirty-two students have been affected in a fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County.

“Update: So far, 132 students have been affected following the fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County, with several evacuated and receiving treatment in various hospitals,” Kenya Red Cross said.