The Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has confirmed that it has launched an in-depth investigation into the tragic fire that occurred on Thursday, May 28, at Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary in Gilgil.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

According to the detectives, preliminary investigations have identified eight students as possible persons of interest in connection with the planning and execution of the suspected arson attack, who have since been arrested and are in police custody.

This was concluded after extensive interviews with students, teaching staff, and other witnesses. The forensic team also carried out a detailed review of available CCTV footage obtained from the school's management.

According to the DCI, detectives continue to record statements and analyse all available evidence to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine the motive.

📌 What You Need to Know

Following the successful conclusion of emergency response operations, a multi-agency investigation team comprising highly specialised personnel, including Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs), Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CR&IB) officers from the Forensic Imaging and Acoustics Unit, and forensic DNA experts, processed the scene at Meline Waithera Dormitory.

The two-storey dormitory, whose first floor sustained extensive fire damage, consists of 12 cubicles accommodating a total of 135 double-decker beds, while the ground floor remained largely intact.

Crime scene processing and documentation are ongoing as investigators work to establish the suspected point of origin of the fire, analyse burn patterns, identify possible ignition sources, and evaluate electrical installations and structural fire dynamics to determine the exact cause.

Detectives are also continuing to record statements and analyse available evidence to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine the motive.

The National Police Service (NPS) conveyed its condolences to the bereaved families, relatives, friends, and the entire school community following the tragedy, while also wishing a swift recovery to those receiving treatment.

The DCI further acknowledged the sensitivity of the incident and appealed to the public, parents, and guardians for calm and patience as investigations continue.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke