8 Utumishi girls students to appear in court for mention in murder charges

The case is scheduled for mention before Justice Diana Kavedza, who is expected to receive a psychiatric assessment report to determine whether the eight girls are mentally fit to stand trial.

The DPP approved the murder charges following investigations into the tragic incident that claimed the lives of the students, a case that has attracted widespread public attention and reignited concerns over safety and unrest in schools.

The psychiatric evaluation is a crucial legal requirement and will establish whether the girls understand the nature of the proceedings and are capable of participating in their defence before the court can proceed with the murder case.

Justice Kavedza is expected to issue further directions after receiving the report, including whether the students can be formally charged and the next steps in the criminal proceedings.

The mention is expected to draw significant public interest given the gravity of the charges and the unprecedented nature of the case involving students accused of the murder of their fellow learners.