The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced a major breakthrough in the investigation into the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which claimed the lives of 16 students on May 28, 2026.
In a statement issued on May 31, 2026, the National Police Service said forensic experts from the DCI Forensics Laboratory analyzed CCTV footage, enhanced video imaging, and conducted acoustic examinations, leading to the identification of students suspected to have participated in the arson attack before fleeing the scene.
According to investigators, six students among the eight initially arrested were positively identified through CCTV footage.
Authorities also revealed that a seventh student, who had earlier been released to her parents, has since been linked to the incident and is currently being sought by detectives.
The DCI said efforts to trace and apprehend the student are ongoing as investigations intensify.
Meanwhile, post-mortem examinations carried out at Naivasha Sub-County Referral Hospital confirmed that all 16 victims died from severe burns sustained during the inferno.
Due to the extent of the burns, DNA samples were collected from relatives to help formally identify the victims’ remains.
The agency thanked parents, students, and members of the public for cooperating with investigators and appealed for anyone with additional information to come forward.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to conducting a thorough, professional, and impartial investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their families. More updates are expected as the probe continues.
