BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Authorities in Blantyre are investigating a suspected arson incident at Michiru Girls Secondary School, where police have arrested 21 students believed to have played a role in fires that destroyed key structures on campus.

The arrests follow a blaze that erupted in the early hours of Thursday, reducing a student hostel and the head teacher’s office to ashes.

Police say the incident appears to have been coordinated, though inquiries are still underway to establish the full extent of the students’ involvement.

Blantyre Police deputy spokesperson Doris Mwitha confirmed the development in an interview with MaraviPost publication, describing the situation as “deeply troubling and unfortunate.”

She said officers responded swiftly after receiving an alert from school authorities.

According to Mwitha, investigators have been working closely with head teacher Francis Musasa, who reported that the fires may have been ignited as an act of protest.

The learners allegedly rejected the school’s decision to extend the closing date from 19 to 21 December 2025.

Sources within the school say tension had been building over the extension, which management communicated earlier this week.

Some students were reportedly unhappy with the revised schedule, claiming it would interfere with their travel plans for the holiday season.

The fire destroyed the girls’ hostel where some of the suspects were accommodated, leaving behind charred mattresses, burnt beds and piles of debris.

Several students have since been temporarily relocated while the school assesses the extent of the damage.

The inferno also gutted the head teacher’s office, burning important documents, including files, certificates belonging to former students and administrative materials essential to daily operations.

Another section affected was the storage room, which held various school supplies.

Among the destroyed property were 90 brand-new floor tiles that had been set aside for upcoming renovations.

School authorities say the incident has disrupted not only the learning environment but also ongoing improvement projects.

They have expressed disappointment that a facility meant to support students’ education has been turned into a crime scene.

Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the motives, identify all responsible parties and assess the total value of the damage. They say additional arrests are possible as evidence continues to emerge.

Mwitha emphasized that acts of vandalism and arson in learning institutions will not be tolerated, warning that those found guilty will face the full force of the law. She added that safeguarding schools remains a top priority as the academic calendar draws to a close.

The Maravi Post