The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced a “major breakthrough” in the ongoing probe into the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, where 16 students died on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
In a statement, the DCI said investigators have made “significant progress” following a detailed forensic analysis of CCTV footage recovered from the school, supported by an enhanced review at the Forensic Imaging and Acoustic Laboratory at the DCI National Police Service Forensics Laboratory.
The analysis, the agency noted, led to the “positive identification of the students who lit the fire.”
Working jointly with school teachers, investigators further confirmed “the identity of seven students who participated in the arson before escaping the scene.”
Out of the eight suspects previously arrested, the DCI confirmed that “six have been positively identified and matched to the CCTV footage.”
The statement further revealed that “the seventh identified student was among those earlier released to their parents and is currently not in custody,” adding that officers are actively working to “trace and arrest her.”
Meanwhile, post-mortem examinations conducted at Naivasha Sub-County Referral Hospital Mortuary and led by Dr. Dorothy Njeri confirmed that “all sixteen students died as a result of severe burns.”
During the exercise, Kenya Red Cross teams provided psychosocial support to bereaved families, who were also allowed to view the bodies of their loved ones. Authorities additionally collected DNA reference samples from the families to support formal identification, given the extent of the burns.
The National Police Service extended its “deepest condolences to the bereaved families, relatives, friends, and the entire school community,” while also wishing “quick recovery to those still receiving medical treatment.”
The DCI commended members of the public for their “continued calm, patience, and full cooperation,” and specifically appreciated parents and students who have assisted investigators by providing statements and supporting evidence review.
Reaffirming its commitment, the agency stated it remains focused on a “thorough, professional, and impartial inquiry to deliver justice for the victims and their families,” adding that “further updates will be provided as more developments emerge.”
The statement was signed by J.K. Marete, HSC, for the Director of Criminal Investigations, dated May 31, 2026.
Do you want to be published? Email info@thedailywhistle.co.ke or WhatsApp 0721930260
You can support this publication via M-Pesa Till Number: 6166112.