NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 23 – The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has approved 16 counts of murder against suspects linked to the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, following a review of the case file arising from the tragedy in which sixteen students lost their lives.
ODPP said on Tuesday it had completed its assessment of a preliminary inquiry file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in relation to the inferno that broke out on May 28, in Nakuru County.
Prosecutors concluded that the evidence supports the charging of the implicated students with sixteen counts of murder, marking a major step forward in a case that has drawn national attention and renewed scrutiny of safety and discipline in schools.
“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has received and reviewed the preliminary inquiry file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations regarding the arson incident that occurred at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County on 28th May 2026,” the statement read.
Security agencies had earlier arrested nine students in connection with the incident, though it remains unclear how many will ultimately face prosecution.
The approval of charges represents a significant milestone in the investigation into one of the deadliest school fires in recent years and is expected to pave the way for closely watched proceedings in Nakuru.
Beyond the case itself, the ODPP expressed concern over what it described as a rising trend of arson and related criminal incidents in learning institutions across the country.
“The DPP notes with concern the recent increase in reported incidents of arson and other acts of criminal conduct in educational institutions across the country,” the agency added, warning that anyone found culpable will face the full force of the law.
The prosecution office urged students and members of the public to avoid involvement in such offences, stressing that accountability will be enforced once investigations establish criminal responsibility.
The ODPP also extended condolences to the families of the victims and the wider school community, describing the loss as deeply painful and regrettable.
At the same time, the office reaffirmed its commitment to a fair and evidence-based prosecution process, saying the matter will proceed strictly on the strength of investigative findings.
“The Office remains committed to ensuring that justice is served through a fair, impartial and evidence-based prosecution process,” the statement noted.
The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days, setting the stage for a high-profile trial that is likely to intensify debate over safety, discipline, and criminal accountability in Kenyan schools.
