17 children charred alive in boarding school hostel fire 13 serious in Kenya

New Delhi: At least 17 students were burnt alive and 13 others were seriously injured in a fire that broke out in a school hostel in Kenya.

The incident took place at Hillside Andarsha Primary School in Nairi County. However, the death toll is likely to rise as many students are critical.

Police and rescue teams rushed to the spot and rescued the children and admitted them to a nearby hospital.

Police spokeswoman Resila Onyango said the cause of the fire was being investigated.

The hostel houses children up to 14 years of age and had more than 150 students. The school buildings are mainly made of wood, due to which the fire spread rapidly.

Kenyan President William Ruto described the incident as “horrific” and directed authorities concerned to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. He said that those responsible for this will be held accountable.