A Grade 10 student from Gathiruini Secondary School in Kiambu, Kenya, was found safe on September 23, 2026, after going missing for 10 days. Kevin Kinyanjui Njogu's family had been searching for him, unable to sleep or eat as they desperately looked for him. The search gained momentum when a photo of Kevin was shared widely on social media.
The breakthrough came when Kevin walked into a local shop at around 8:30 a.m. and purchased a Predator energy drink and cakes. The shopkeeper recognised him from the circulating photo and immediately contacted Kevin's family. Kevin provided his parent's phone number, which led to his identification and subsequent reunion with his family at Lari Police Station.
Kevin's family described the past 10 days as among the most distressing of their lives, with sleep and food becoming near impossible due to the stress of searching for him. They expressed gratitude to the shopkeeper, members of the public, social media users, and media stations for their efforts in circulating information about Kevin, which ultimately led to his safe return.
The family also apologised to all parties, including the school and police, for anything they may have said or done in the heat of their desperation. Lari Sub-County Police Commander Ngaria confirmed that investigations would continue to determine how Kevin left the school premises, with a children's officer assigned to work alongside an officer from Kibichoi Police Station on the case.
Kevin's family used the occasion to raise broader concerns about student safety, citing that this was not the first time Kevin had gone missing and that many children had gone missing from different schools. They urged school administrators to prioritise security and called on all stakeholders to take shared responsibility for ensuring children remain safe while in school.
The incident is not an isolated case, as highlighted by TUKO.co.ke in another story about Form Four student Mitchel Afandi, who collapsed and died at Moi Girls High School Vokoli in Kakamega County. An autopsy at Vihiga Referral Hospital revealed the cause of her death, sparking concerns about student safety and well-being in Kenyan schools.
The safe return of Kevin Kinyanjui Njogu has brought relief to his family and community, who had been gripped by worry and fear for his safety. The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety and well-being of students in Kenyan schools.
Key points
- A Grade 10 student from Gathiruini Secondary School was found safe after going missing for 10 days.
- The student was recognised by a shopkeeper from a circulating photo on social media.
- The incident raises broader concerns about student safety and security in Kenyan schools.
