Eight girls suspected to have set ablaze a dormitory at Utumishi Girls Academy leading to the loss of 16 students have been denied bail after pleading not guilty to murder charges.

Justice Diana Kavedza ruled that she needed more time to consider the authorities cited and submissions by both the prosecution and the defense.

The judge ruled that a pre-bail report be prepared by a probation officer to help the court in the bail application ruling.

“You will interview the parents of the deceased, the school administration as well as the investigating officer and the children as well,” the judge ordered the probation officer.

The teenagers pleaded not guilty to 16 counts of murder that occurred on the night of 27th and 28th June 2026 at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, as a result of the fire.

The judge also ordered the media to report accurately and not reveal the identities of the minor suspects.

“No report, publication broadcast shall directly or indirectly identify any subject minor,” the judge ruled.

While cautioning against sensational reporting and external influence of the case, the judge noted that court must guard against trial by media, public pressure, sensitive concerns and premature conclusions.

The court will deliver the bail ruling on 22nd September 2026.