The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has issued a green light to charge students implicated in the fatal fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which claimed lives of 16 persons.
In a statement dated June 23, 2026, the ODPP said it had reviewed a preliminary inquiry file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding the arson incident that occurred on May 28, 2026.
Following the evaluation evidence collected by the detectives, the Director of Public Prosecutions gave the nod to 16 murder charges brought against the students involved, who have now been charged prosecution after the tragic event.The ODPP said it was deeply concerned about the continuous increase of arson cases and other criminal acts in schools nationwide and warned that those found guilty would be dealt with severely.
“The Office is determined to ensure justice through a fair, impartial, and evidence, based prosecution process, ” the ODPP added.
The prosecuting agency also expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased, the friends, and the Utumishi Girls Academy family who are still mourning the tragedy.
The ODPP also pledged upholding the rule of law, safeguarding public interest, and ensuring accountability have been the main aspects tackled when conduct criminal has been proved through a probe.
