Authorities in Kenya are investigating a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, where at least 16 students lost their lives and several others were injured.The fire broke out shortly after midnight and quickly spread through a dormitory block, causing panic among the students.

Early reports suggest that investigators are treating the case as a possible arson attack, with suspicions that the fire may have been deliberately started.Police have already detained around 30 students for questioning as part of efforts to establish what happened before and during the incident.

These students were reportedly held at the school administration block where detectives interrogated them over possible involvement or knowledge of how the fire began.Some learners who had earlier been allowed to go home were also recalled as investigators widened their probe.

Survivors of the tragedy have shared accounts indicating that dormitory routines were strictly followed, including lights being switched off at a fixed time each night.However, confusion arose when the fire broke out around midnight, raising questions about security and emergency response within the school premises.

Investigators are also examining claims that the dormitory doors may have been locked from the outside at the time of the fire, a factor that could have worsened the death toll.

Additionally, authorities are exploring whether academic pressure, including upcoming examinations scheduled for early June, could have played any role in the incident, although no direct link has been confirmed.

The investigation remains ongoing, with police stating that more students may be questioned as they continue to gather evidence to determine the exact cause of the deadly blaze.