At least ten students have been arrested following violent unrest at Litein Boys High School in Kericho County on Sunday night, where parts of the institution were set ablaze during a rampage.
Confirming the arrests on Monday, September 22, Kericho Governor Eric Mutai stated that security officers had reviewed CCTV footage, which helped identify the culprits. “I commend the county security team for their swift action. As we talk now, ten boys have been arrested,” Mutai said in an interview with Citizen TV. He added that some of the students were captured on camera brandishing machetes and knives, which will aid investigations.
The chaos reportedly began after students protested the administration’s decision to deny them permission to watch the much-anticipated English Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester City. What started as a minor complaint quickly escalated into a violent strike. Students set classrooms and dormitories on fire, with videos widely shared online showing thick smoke and raging flames engulfing sections of the school.
According to reports, the students switched off the compound’s lights, creating a blackout that allowed them to overpower police and security officers and carry out the destruction under the cover of darkness.
In response, the school was closed indefinitely on Monday morning, with parents ordered to collect their children as investigations continue.
Governor Mutai further revealed that discussions are underway with Ministry of Education officials to address the systemic challenges at Litein Boys and other institutions within Kericho County. “By so doing, it will help us get to the deep-rooted cause of the problem. Litein Boys is not the only school that will be considered. The same will be done in all institutions within Kericho County,” he said.
The students arrested are expected to face charges as police intensify investigations into the riot.
