8 Kenyan students arrested over school arson

By Magdalene Mukami

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - A high school in southwestern Kenya was set ablaze on Wednesday, police said.

Eight students of the Kisii High School have been arrested over the suspected arson after they were seen escaping from their dormitory moments before the fire erupted.

Kisii County Commander Hassan Abdi told local media that the cameras which were installed just a few weeks ago have aided them in their investigation.

James Moracho, a parent, told Anadolu Agency: "I rushed to the school to ensure my child was safe. The sky had turned orange due to the fire and smoke."

Four more schools were also set ablaze late on Tuesday and Wednesday.

More than 30 high schools have been set on fire in the past week, prompting the government to announce tough actions against the perpetrators.

Education Minister Amina Mohammed has said that the unrest has come up as most students are protesting tough examination laws put in place to curb cheating.

In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations warned students that their conduct is being noted down and in the future police authorities will not grant them clearance certificate ruining their chances of employment.