Three Students Arrested Following Dormitory Fire at Solai Boys High School in Nakuru
Authorities have arrested three students in connection with a dormitory fire that erupted late last night at Solai Boys High School, leaving dozens injured and prompting a temporary shutdown of classes for upper-level students. The blaze, which broke out around midnight, affected at least 50 students who sustained minor injuries, primarily from smoke inhalation and minor burns during the evacuation.
Police are treating the incident as a possible case of arson, with investigations underway to determine the exact cause and any motives behind the fire. The school, located in Solai within Nakuru County, is known for its motto "Plan Ahead: The School of Good Boys," but this event has raised concerns about student safety and discipline.
The fire completely destroyed an 88-bed dormitory, displacing residents and causing significant property damage.Emergency services responded swiftly, containing the flames before they could spread to other buildings, but the affected students required immediate medical attention at nearby facilities. School administrators, in coordination with local authorities, decided to send home all Form Four and Form Three students as a precautionary measure to allow for assessments and counseling.These learners, who make up a substantial portion of the student body, are expected to return on Monday and Tuesday respectively, accompanied by their parents or guardians to ensure a smooth reintegration.
This incident echoes past unrest at the school, including a 2017 riot where students torched two dormitories, leading to an indefinite closure and injuries from a stampede.
While no fatalities were reported in the latest fire, it highlights ongoing challenges in Kenyan boarding schools, such as overcrowding and student grievances that sometimes escalate into destructive acts. Education officials have not yet commented on broader implications, but parents expressed relief that injuries were minor while calling for stricter safety protocols.
As the investigation continues, the arrested students—whose identities remain undisclosed due to their minor status—face potential charges.
