This archive report was first published on 3 November 2021.
Published on November 3, 2021
Twenty-four students from Kanjuri and Kiarithaini High Schools in Mathira, Nyeri County, have been charged with malicious damage for their alleged role in destroying an electricity transformer valued at Sh1.1 million.
The students, who were arraigned before a Karatina court on Tuesday, also faced charges of being in possession of prohibited substances, including bhang and petrol.
Principal Magistrate Karen Njalale rejected an application by the State Counsel to have the charges deferred for two weeks, stating that it was time for 'decisive and firm action' against the students.
'As a court, it's the time for decisive and firm action against these students who should be in school and not in corridors of justice. I order their plea be taken, as for your application we will make a ruling later,' said Njalale.
The students were released on free bond, with their parents directed to deposit copies of their identity cards and phone numbers pending the hearing of the case in December.
