Court Bars Media from Publishing Images of Litein Boys High School Students Pending Investigation

Kericho Principal Magistrate Fredrick Nyakundi has ordered the continued detention of eight students from Litein Boys High School for an additional seven days, granting authorities more time to carry out a thorough investigation into serious allegations leveled against them. 

The students, who were arraigned on Tuesday, September 23, face multiple charges, including arson, burglary, and malicious damage to school property. These charges arise from an incident that reportedly involved significant disruption and damage to the school environment.

The magistrate directed that the students be held at Litein Police Station under the supervision of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS). This decision ensures that the authorities can closely monitor the suspects while investigations proceed and allows for proper evidence collection and verification. The court emphasized that the extended detention period is necessary to ensure that investigators have sufficient time to gather information, interview witnesses, and compile all relevant materials needed to build a robust case.

In addition to the detention order, Magistrate Nyakundi issued a strict directive barring members of the public and the press from publishing images or videos of the students involved. 

This measure aims to protect the identities of the suspects and prevent undue influence on the investigation or trial. I

The charges against the students highlight the severity of the alleged acts. Arson and malicious damage to property not only threaten the safety of fellow students and staff but also disrupt the educational environment, potentially causing significant financial and structural harm. 

As investigations continue over the coming week, the focus will remain on establishing a clear understanding of the events that transpired and determining the responsibility of each student involved. 

The extended detention period is expected to provide the police with sufficient time to collect evidence, consult experts if necessary, and prepare a comprehensive report to guide subsequent legal proceedings. The case continues to draw attention locally, but the court’s measures ensure that it will proceed in an orderly and fair manner, balancing the public interest with the rights of the accused.

The coming days will be critical in shaping the course of this case, which serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s role in maintaining order and ensuring accountability within school environments.