High Court denies bail to eight minors in Utumishi Girls fire case

In her analysis and determination, Justice Kavedza noted that the circumstances surrounding the case raised concerns that warranted the minors remaining in custody as the matter proceeds.

"The court finds that the immediate release of the minors would expose them to harm," she ruled, adding that releasing the accused at this stage could potentially interfere with the judicial process and affect the integrity of the proceedings.

The eight minors were charged with 16 counts of murder following an incident that led to their arrest and subsequent suspension from Utumishi Girls. They had sought release on bail pending the hearing and determination of the case, but the court declined the application, citing the circumstances of the case and the need to safeguard the integrity of the ongoing proceedings.

The minors will be held at Kamae Girls Borstal Institution, located within the Kamiti Maximum Prison complex along Kamiti Road in Kahawa/Githurai, Nairobi, as the case proceeds.

In her ruling, Justice Kavedza set out specific conditions governing their custody. Each of the eight is to be given an individual bed and cubicle to ensure separate sleeping space, along with access to reading materials and medical care. A children's officer has been directed to monitor their safety throughout their stay at the facility.

The judge also ruled that the minors' parents shall be allowed contact with their children once a month.