Govt Swings Into Action After Utumishi Girls Fire Kills 16 Students

The National Police Service has confirmed that 16 students died while 79 others sustained injuries following a devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, on Thursday morning, May 28.

In a statement issued after the tragedy, the National Police Service said Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Mr. Eliud Lagat, arrived at the school on May 28, 2026, to oversee and coordinate rescue and recovery operations following the deadly inferno.

“Following a devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil today, 28 May 2026, the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Mr. Eliud Lagat, arrived at the school to coordinate rescue and recovery efforts,” the statement said.

The police further confirmed the scale of the tragedy, revealing that dozens of students had been rushed to different medical facilities for treatment after the fire broke out at the institution.

“The fire resulted in the tragic deaths of 16 students and injuries to 79 others. The injured were evacuated to various medical facilities, where 71 have since been discharged and 8 remain under medical care,” the National Police Service stated.

Senior Government Officials Briefed

According to the police, Mr. Lagat later briefed senior government officials, including Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen and Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Migos Ogamba, on the ongoing emergency response and recovery efforts at the school.

“Later, Mr. Lagat briefed the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, and the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, along with other dignitaries, on the progress of the operation,” the statement added.

Also Read: CS Ogamba Orders Indefinite Closure of Utumishi Girls After Deadly Fire Kills 16 Students

A press briefing was subsequently held at the school compound, where leaders conveyed their condolences to the bereaved families and expressed solidarity with the affected students and the wider school community.

“During a press briefing held at the school, the leaders expressed their condolences to the parents, families, and friends of the deceased students. They also wished the injured a speedy and full recovery,” the statement read.

Counselling and Investigations Underway

Authorities also announced plans to roll out counselling and psychosocial support services to assist students, parents, teachers and other affected individuals.

“The officials further announced that comprehensive counselling and psychosocial support would be provided to the parents, students, and school staff to help them cope with the emotional impact of the tragedy,” the National Police Service said.

Also Read: Ruto Breaks Silence on Utumishi Girls Fire Incident

Meanwhile, investigations into the cause of the fire have already commenced, with specialised police units working alongside other agencies to establish what triggered the deadly blaze.

“Specialised police units, working in collaboration with other relevant agencies, are conducting investigations to establish the exact cause of the fire,” the statement noted.

The National Police Service also announced the establishment of a dedicated support hotline for families seeking information, psychological counselling and related assistance following the tragedy.

“A dedicated hotline has been established for inquiries, psychological counselling, and support. Parents, relatives, and well-wishers are encouraged to call 1199,” the statement said.

Police further disclosed that several senior security officials had joined the response operation at the school.

“Also present were the Director of Criminal Investigations, Mr. Mohammed Amin; the Principal Deputy to the DIG-APS, Mr. Masoud Mwinyi, SAIG; and other senior officers,” the National Police Service stated.

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A rescue and support centre tent set-up by Kenya Red Cross. PHOTO/ NPS