Barding Boys High School in Siaya County has been closed indefinitely following the arrest of three students in connection with an alleged arson plot. The closure aims to protect students and staff while detectives conduct investigations into a coordinated plan to burn down the institution.
Intelligence Leads to Dormitory Raid
The incident unravelled when Principal Paul J. Ouma received intelligence reports that learners were hiding highly flammable fuel within the dormitories. Acting on the tip-off, a multi-agency security team led by Siaya Deputy County Commissioner Robert Ng’etich stormed the school to conduct a room-to-room search.
The surprise operation targeted the Jupiter Block dormitory, which houses approximately 140 Form Three students.
“We acted swiftly after receiving credible information that some students were in possession of a flammable substance suspected to be petrol,” Principal Ouma stated. “The safety of learners and staff remains our top priority”.
Suspects Apprehended and Contraband Seized
During the raid, officers recovered half a litre of suspected petrol concealed inside the school box of an 18-year-old student. Upon questioning, the teenager implicated two other students in the plot. All three suspects were immediately taken into police custody.
Investigators further revealed that prior to the dormitory raid, teachers had discovered a separate two-litre container of suspected petrol hidden in an unused classroom. This earlier discovery heavily indicated that an arson attack was imminent.
“Our intervention prevented what could have been a serious incident,” said Deputy County Commissioner Ng’etich. “We are conducting thorough investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged plot and whether more individuals were involved”.
Broader Implications for the Education Sector
Education officials endorsed the temporary closure, noting it will help restore order and ease panic among the student body. Parents are awaiting official directives from the Ministry of Education regarding the resumption of learning.
This incident reflects an escalating trend of dormitory fires and unrest in Kenyan secondary schools. The nation is still reeling from the recent Utumishi Girls Academy tragedy, which claimed 16 lives. For comprehensive updates on administrative policies and school safety guidelines, educators can visit teacher.co.ke.