The Kenyan authorities have apprehended eight students suspected of causing a fatal fire at a girls’ boarding school. The tragedy occurred at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, where 16 students died, and 79 others were injured. The fire, which started shortly before 1 a.m. on Thursday, was contained by 3 a.m.

According to a statement from the country’s criminal investigations unit, the students detained are considered ‘persons of interest’ in the planning and execution of the fire. They are expected to appear in court next Tuesday, as confirmed by Kenya’s education minister, Julius Ogamba. Investigators have reviewed CCTV footage and continue to examine evidence to determine the motive behind the suspected arson.

The high school, run by Kenya’s police, is about 75 miles from Nairobi. Following the fire, attention has been drawn to the safety measures in Kenyan schools. A government audit from 2020 highlighted that many schools lack adequate fire safety measures, despite longstanding national guidelines.

Kenya has witnessed similar tragedies in the past. In 2024, a fire at an elementary school resulted in 21 fatalities. The country’s deadliest school fire occurred in 2001, killing 67 students in Machakos.

Minister Ogamba stated that the school’s administration had been dissolved due to their failure to comply with safety regulations. Reports indicated that overcrowding and a locked exit hindered student evacuation. Two teachers, aware of the potential arson, will face disciplinary measures.

Parents at the scene expressed frustration over the lack of information from authorities. Many students jumped from windows to escape, leading to injuries. Seven severely injured students were transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital for further treatment. Authorities are conducting autopsies, and efforts are underway to identify the deceased.