More than 115 days later, the eight minors accused over the Utumishi Girls fire tragedy remain behind bars, even as a pre-bail report raises fresh concerns about their treatment while in detention.
The eight students were arrested in connection with the May 28, 2026, fire tragedy at Utumishi Girls Academy that claimed the lives of 16 students.
The Kibera High Court, while ruling on their application for bail, ordered that the minors remain in custody, citing security concerns and continued tension within the affected Utumishi Girls community.
Justice Diana Kavedza said the circumstances surrounding the case continued to raise concerns, leading the court to find that the minors should remain in remand as the case proceeds.
However, a pre-bail assessment report presented to the court raised concerns about the welfare of the children, reportedly indicating that they had faced bullying, assault and discrimination while at the Nairobi Children’s Remand Home.
The court directed that the minors be transferred to Kamae Borstal Institution within the Kamiti complex, where they are expected to continue receiving education, medical care and other essential services.
Through their lawyers, the eight minors had sought to be released on bail pending the hearing and determination of the case. They remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court.
