Fresh Twist as Court Rules on Nine Students in Deadly Utumishi Fire Case

Students from Utumishi Academy appear at Naivasha Law Courts in Nakuru, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. PHOTO/ Brian Inganga/AP

The Naivasha Law Courts has allowed the continued detention of nine students from Utumishi Girls Academy for 21 more days as investigations continue into a deadly arson incident that left 16 students dead and caused extensive destruction of property.

The court agreed with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) that investigators still need more time to complete key forensic and scientific analyses linked to the case.

“The inquiry into possible arson and murder charges remains active and requires further detention of the minors to allow investigators to finalize critical leads,” the prosecution told the court.

“The case involves complex evidence gathering, which includes forensic reconstruction of the scene and analysis of materials recovered from the fire site,” DPP added.

The court accepted these submissions and ruled that the ongoing nature of the investigations justified extending the detention period.

Also Read: Court Issues Way Forward in Case of Utumishi Academy Fire Suspects

Forensic Tests of Utumishi Girls Still Pending Completion

Prosecutors further informed the court that the DNA analysis and other forensic examinations are key steps still underway before investigators can conclusively determine the circumstances surrounding the fire incident.

Authorities explained that several scientific processes remain incomplete, including forensic testing and reconstruction of the scene.

They added that releasing the students at this stage could interfere with the integrity of the investigation.

Court Orders Protection and Welfare Measures for Minors

Chief Magistrate Abdulqadir Ramadhan directed that the nine students remain at the Nakuru Children’s Home for the entire detention period.

The court also ensured that they will receive regular support from officers of the Children’s Department to safeguard their welfare and rights.

In addition, the court barred the media and the public from capturing, sharing or publishing the identities or images of the students, citing the need to protect minors.

Also Read: CCTV Footage Reveals How Utumishi Girls Fire Was Started and Students’ Movements Afterwards