Safety and security of students in boarding schools in Kenya has once again been highlighted following suspected murder of a primary school pupil in Narok County last weekend.

The dead student was discovered bleeding from deep cuts around his throat by dormitory-mates, but it remains unclear how, why, when and where the student was attacked as no one heard any commotion. The dead student did not raise alarm.

It is also not clear if the dead student was attacked by schoolmates or outsiders, which led to the school night-guard being arrested to help the police with investigations.

In the wake of the murder, shock and grief enveloped Narok Adventist Primary and Junior Secondary School after a 14-year-old Grade Nine pupil was murdered under unclear circumstances in the school compound on Saturday night.

According to a police report, the boy was discovered in his bed by fellow students bleeding profusely from a deep cut on his neck. The pupils immediately alerted the school matron, who rushed him to Narok Referral Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.

Preliminary investigations revealed blood smeared on a bench outside the dormitory, traces of blood in the boys’ toilet, and drops of blood in the clothesline area, suggesting the boy may have been attacked elsewhere before returning to the dormitory.

Police arrested the school guard, Julius Swakesi, in connection with the incident. He is expected to assist detectives in the ongoing investigations.

The shocking incident sparked outrage in the surrounding community. Enraged residents stormed the school compound and set one dormitory ablaze but police officers arrived in time to contain the situation and prevented further destruction.

Residents described the victim as a lively, humble and obedient child whose sudden death has left many in disbelief.

Purity Munke, a worshipper at Narok SDA Church and a friend of the deceased, recalled spending time with him earlier that day.

“I was very shocked when I heard the news. I even went to the morgue to confirm the sad news,” she said tearfully.

Parents of the school expressed outrage over the killing, demanding accountability from the administration.

“We want to know where the caretaker, matron and guards were when this boy was attacked. The family deserves justice,” said Ms Beatrice Isaiah, a parent.

Another parent, Wilfred Kilema, urged the school to tighten security to prevent strangers from accessing the compound. Neighbours also mourned the boy, describing him as disciplined and focused on his education.

“This boy’s parents were struggling to give him a decent education as they have other children in school. For his life to be cut short in such a cruel manner is heart-breaking,” Esther Mpaka, a neighbour, said.

Police have assured the public that thorough investigations are underway to uncover the motive and bring the perpetrators to justice.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Ann Salaton