Chief Magistrate Abdulqadir Ramadhan on Wednesday, June 24, ordered the release of one suspect in the Utumishi Girls’ Academy fire case.
According to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the court found that the suspect was not culpable for the arson that killed 16 learners at the institution. The magistrate directed that she be released to her parents after investigations established she had no role in the offense.
The ODPP also said the court granted an application allowing eight other suspects connected to the tragedy to remain in custody for an additional two days. The suspects are set to appear in court for arraignment following that extension.
Chief Magistrate Ramadhan further ordered that the remaining suspects be remanded at either the Nakuru Children’s Remand Home or the Nairobi Children’s Remand Home.
The suspects are expected in court on Friday, June 26, for the mention and plea-taking after the DPP approved charges for the offense of murder, contrary to Section 203, as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code.
Earlier, the DPP confirmed that the suspects will face 16 counts of murder linked to the suspected arson attack that resulted in the deaths of the 16 learners.
The ODPP also expressed deep concern about a recent rise in reported cases of arson and other forms of criminal conduct in educational institutions across the country.
The prosecutors warned students and the public that anyone found culpable of such offenses will face legal consequences in line with the law.
