DPP orders Police IG to investigate fire that killed 17 pupils

Parents and guardians await information from police at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri. [Kibata Kihuu, Standard]

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has instructed the Inspector General of Police to investigate the tragic fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni, Nyeri County, which resulted in the deaths of 17 pupils.

In an official statement released on Saturday, September 7, the DPP directed the Inspector General to examine whether negligence or carelessness contributed to the fire.

"Per the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees every child's right to education, safety, and protection from harm, the DPP has mandated the Inspector General of Police to conduct a thorough investigation. This inquiry will determine the circumstances leading to the deadly fire and assess if any negligence or recklessness by responsible parties was involved," said Ingonga.

The Police IG is expected to submit the investigation report to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for review upon completion.

Ingonga has pledged that those found responsible for the deaths of the pupils will be held accountable under the law.

This statement follows the tragic event in which 18 learners perished in a dormitory fire, with 14 others currently hospitalised.

President William Ruto declared three days of mourning to honor the victims.

During this period, both the Kenyan flag and the East African Community flag will be flown at half-mast across the country.