Nine Form Three students from Utumishi Girls’ Senior School stood in the dock at Naivasha Law Courts. The girls faced a packed courtroom under heavy security on Tuesday.
The case revolves around a dormitory fire that claimed 16 lives. Police say the viral CCTV footage places the suspects at the centre of the alleged arson.
Prosecutors told the chief magistrate’s court that the video and preliminary evidence support a murder investigation. State counsel Emmah Okok argued the girls should remain in custody.
Safety concerns for the suspects formed part of the reasons given against their release. The footage, which spread widely online, captured key moments inside the dormitory.
The girls had spent three nights in police holding after their arrest. Officers are seeking 30 more days to complete investigations.
The fire broke out at the school in Gilgil. It left 16 students dead and many others injured.
Homicide detectives lead the probe. They work alongside Kenya Power and Nakuru County Disaster Management and Fire Rescue Services.
The team aims to establish the precise role each suspect played. Forensic analysis of the CCTV formed a major part of how the girls were identified.
The prosecution presented the footage as critical evidence during the first day of proceedings. It reportedly shows the students' movements before and during the incident.
Many details remain under wraps as the investigation continues. The court heard that the probe is not yet complete.
This tragedy has shaken the community around Gilgil. Families of the victims continue to grieve while awaiting full answers.
The school, previously known for its disciplined environment, now finds itself at the heart of a criminal case involving its own students.
Exact circumstances of how the fire started are still being pieced together. Authorities have not released the full video publicly during proceedings.
The appearance of the nine girls drew significant attention. Security was tight outside the courthouse to manage crowds and media.
Police had arrested the suspects following a swift review of security camera recordings from the dormitory.
This marks an early but intense phase in what promises to be a closely watched trial. Further forensic and witness evidence is expected in coming weeks.
The case highlights ongoing questions about safety protocols in boarding schools across Kenya. Dormitory fires have occurred before, often raising issues around locked exits and overcrowding.
Investigators are examining all angles, including any potential electrical faults through Kenya Power's involvement. Yet the CCTV has shifted focus toward deliberate action.
For the families who lost daughters, the court process offers a path to accountability. Many have called for thorough justice.
The magistrate will rule on the detention request after hearing both sides. Proceedings continue amid intense public interest in the viral footage.
This incident has prompted fresh scrutiny of how schools manage student welfare and emergency preparedness at night.
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