A devastating fire at Karia Boys High School has resulted in the destruction of property valued at millions of shillings. The blaze, which occurred on Sunday night, significantly disrupted normal operations at the school, located just a few kilometers from Kerugoya town.
The fire broke out in a dormitory that housed 100 students, reducing it to ashes and destroying mattresses, beds, clothes, and other personal belongings. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
According to preliminary reports, it is suspected that the fire was started intentionally by students who had become unruly. The situation escalated quickly as Kirinyaga County officials attempted to extinguish the fire, only to be met with hostility from the students.
“On arrival at the school, the stone-throwing students chased us away. They even destroyed the windscreen of the fire engine,” said John Kiama, one of the officials involved in the firefighting efforts.
The incident began around 10 PM when the students started rioting. Teachers on duty were also targeted by the students and had to flee the scene. The situation became so volatile that riot police had to be called in to restore order.
“Even the teachers on duty were not spared by the students. They fled when the students confronted and threw stones at them. We were forced to call in the police to tame the students,” added Kiama.
This incident comes just one day after a similar event at Kerugoya Boys High School, where students set another dormitory on fire, causing widespread panic in the area. Following that incident, the students were immediately sent home, and the school was closed indefinitely.
Kirinyaga County Commissioner Hussein Allasow condemned the recent events and warned that those responsible would face legal consequences.
“We are investigating the two incidents, and those responsible will face the law,” Commissioner Allasow stated.
The recent spate of student unrest in Kirinyaga County has raised concerns among parents, school authorities, and local government officials. The cause of the unrest remains under investigation, with authorities promising thorough inquiries and appropriate actions against those found culpable.
The series of incidents highlights the urgent need for measures to address student behavior and safety in schools, ensuring that such disruptive and destructive events do not recur.
