Kenya: Learners Torch Hostel after Missing Football Game

Kenyan police have detained four schoolboys after they burnt down a dormitory because they were not allowed to watch a football match.

These learners – along with 12 other pupils from Dr Krapf Boys Secondary School in the southeastern coastal town of Kilifi – were questioned over the alleged incident that saw a 160-person dwelling and personal belongings destroyed by a fire

According to reports, the suspects had requested to watch the English Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester United on Sunday, 24 October, but were denied – television viewings are only permitted on Saturdays, as per the boarding school rules and regulations.

The school has since been closed pending the investigation.

Rabai Sub-County police commander, Fredrick Abuga, confirmed that the four students were “the main culprits” and will be charged with arson today, Wednesday 27 October.

Abuga also confirmed that they were searching for two more suspects who escaped following the fire.

In June 2016, a similar incident occurred when students burnt down the dormitories of Itierio Boys Secondary School in Kisii after they were told they could not watch a Euro football match.