A primary school teacher in Kilifi County has been arrested in connection with the death of a 15-year-old student, who is believed to have succumbed to injuries sustained during corporal punishment.
According to preliminary police findings, the incident occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Gongoni Primary School in Kilifi South Sub-County.
During the final lesson before games, the teacher, identified as Mr. Ian Tembo, allegedly instructed Grade 8 pupils to kneel before administering corporal punishment.
One of the students, Anestine Dzidza Tunje, reportedly returned home that afternoon but began experiencing severe headaches the following day.
Her condition deteriorated over the weekend, and she was taken to Kilifi County Hospital for medical attention. Despite efforts by doctors, she passed away on September 25, 2025.
The student’s family reported the matter to authorities two days later, prompting an investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
On Wednesday, October 1, Mr. Tembo was summoned by police and subsequently detained at Mtwapa Police Station.
Kilifi South Sub-County Police Commander Hassan Kochale confirmed the arrest and said detectives are working to determine the direct connection between the punishment and the student’s death.
“The suspect is in custody, and we will be seeking additional time from the court to complete our investigations before the case proceeds to trial,” said Kochale.
Investigations are ongoing.
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