Kindiki condemns false claims on Hillside Endarasha fire

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has condemned false statements on the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire, calling those advancing misleading information "heartless criminals" and "enemies of society."

Speaking on Thursday, September 12 when he visited the school, Kindiki stressed the government's commitment to supporting affected families and ensuring justice.

"We will establish the truth of what happened," said Kindiki.

"If this catastrophic event was caused by a person, we will pursue justice on behalf of the families."

Kindiki also warned social media users against spreading false claims about the tragedy.

He noted that while he has seen alarming statements online, the government has no intention of hiding information.

"I want to appeal to Kenyans, including those on social media, to handle national security matters with greater sensitivity," he said.

Kindiki was responding to claims that some pupils remain missing and that the government has withheld information.

He clarified that the school had 843 pupils registered, with 330 as boarders. Of these, he noted, 21 died in the fire.

Questions have arisen regarding the whereabouts of 70 learners initially reported missing.

Lead investigator Dr. Abraham Mugambi, who has been leading search efforts since the fire on Thursday night, September 5, said all children have now been accounted for.

"There's a lot of propaganda, especially from social media, and unfortunately, some people want to discredit the government over a tragic incident," said Mugambi.

"It's unfair, especially as families are mourning."

Mugambi explained that some students fled in panic during the fire, with some sheltered by neighbours and others picked up by their parents, leading to initial difficulties in tracking all pupils.