The Kibera High Court, on 21st September 2026, upheld the prosecution’s objection to the release of the eight minors accused of murder charges.
The court stated that the DPP had established compelling reasons to warrant their continued detention pending the hearing and determination of the case.
This follows the case involving eight minors charged with the murder of 16 students of Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County.
Justice Diana Kavedza ruled that the minors are facing 16 counts of murder arising from the tragic fire at the school and that their release would expose them to potential harm.
The DPP charged the eight minors with 16 counts of murder following the deaths of the 16 students in the fire that occurred on the night of 27th and 28th May 2026.
The prosecution informed the court that the eight minors allegedly acted jointly in causing the deaths of the students.
In opposing their release on bond, the DPP argued that continued detention was necessary to preserve the integrity of the trial and ensure the proper administration of justice.
After considering the prosecution’s submissions and the circumstances of the case, Justice Kavedza directed that the eight minors be remanded at Kamae Borstal Institution pending the hearing and determination of the matter.
The court further directed that each minor be held in an individual cubicle equipped with a bed.
The prosecution team comprises Senior Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Vincent Monda, Senior Assistant Directors of Public Prosecutions Gikui Gichuhi and Maryanne Mwangi, together with Linda Ndambiri, Paul Ochieng and Peris Maina.
