Kenya Police Boss Given Strict Directive Over Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire
Renson Mulele Ingonga, the Director of Public Prosecution, has issued a directive to the Inspector General of Police regarding the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire, which claimed 17 lives and injured others.
In a statement issued on Saturday, September 7, 2024, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) directed the police chief to launch an investigation into the incident.
The DPP asked the police chief to investigate whether the fire incident was the result of negligence or recklessness.
“In line with the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which guarantees every child’s right to education, safety, and protection from all forms of harm, the DPP has directed the Inspector General of Police to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the déadly fire,” ODPP’s statement read in part.
Press statement on Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire Tragedy. #HakiNaUsawa pic.twitter.com/PBBue0mqgY
— Office of The Director Of Public Prosecutions (@ODPP_KE) September 7, 2024
“And also assess whether or not the tragedy may have resulted from negligence and/or recklessness of any responsibility holders, and to forward the file to the DPP for a review towards making the decision to charge.”
DPP Ingonga has, however, stated that anyone found guilty will face the law. He also agreed to expedite the process.
“The DPP assures the public that any person found culpable towards the fire tragedy shall be expediently taken through the due process of a criminal trial,” Ingonga added.
While promising to take firm action, Ingonga shared his condolences and wished for quick recovery to those injured during the incident.
Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli confirmed on Friday, September 6, 2024, that an investigation had been launched in response to the fire incident.
“The unfortunate tragedy at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri is already being investigated and we will give a comprehensive update once investigations are completed,” Masengeli stated.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki also paid a visit to the school and assured parents that relevant information would be provided once all students had been accounted for.
He challenged those who had taken their children to return them.
“I can confirm that a number of the pupils ran into the neighbouring homes and they need help and counselling,” Kindiki said.
“Our appeal is to anybody who could be harbouring a child to bring them for accountability.”
Hillside Endarasha Academy has a total of 824 students, including 156 boys and 160 girls who board, with the remainder being day scholars.
The ill-fated dormitory accommodated all 156 male boarders. By the time of publication, parents were still congregating at the school to obtain pertinent information about their children.
Kenya Police Boss Given Strict Directive Over Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire
