IG Kanja promises full probe into Utumishi Girls fire

Police IG Doughlas Kanja /FILE

The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that has left several students dead and others injured, pledging a full investigation into the cause of the incident.

In a condolence message issued on Thursday, Kanja said the National Police Service stood with parents, relatives, friends and the wider school community during what he described as a painful and heartbreaking moment for the country.

“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I, on behalf of the entire National Police Service, extend our deepest condolences to you,” Kanja said.

He said the loss of young lives had left an irreplaceable void in the nation, noting that the victims represented the hope and future of the country.

“We are deeply heartbroken by the untimely and painful loss of the precious young lives of the girls who perished in this tragic incident,” he said.

Kanja said no words could adequately capture the grief being experienced by families affected by the tragedy, adding that the nation shared in their pain.

“No words can adequately express the sorrow, nor fully capture the depth of your grief,” he said.

The Inspector General also conveyed sympathy to students who were injured in the fire, wishing them a quick recovery as they continue to receive medical attention.

“To the students who sustained injuries, we wish you a speedy and full recovery,” he said.

He assured parents and guardians that the National Police Service would provide support during the difficult period, including psychosocial assistance and coordination of response efforts.

Kanja further confirmed that police had launched investigations into the cause of the fire, saying officers would work to establish what happened and prevent a repeat of such a tragedy.

“We are committed to conducting a thorough and professional investigation into the cause of the fire so that such a tragedy is prevented in the future,” he said.

He added that police officers and counselling teams had already been deployed to support affected families and the school community as recovery efforts continue.

The Utumishi Girls Academy fire has triggered national attention as leaders lead in mourning with condolence messages.

Emergency teams, the Kenya Red Cross and education officials are continuing to assist in response operations.

Parents were also advised to use emergency hotline 1199 to trace missing students as authorities worked to confirm the full number of casualties.

The tragedy has reignited concerns over fire safety standards in boarding schools, with renewed calls for stricter enforcement of emergency preparedness measures in learning institutions across the country.

As investigations begin, the National Police Service has urged the public to remain patient and allow forensic teams to determine the cause of the fire.