The National Police Service (NPS) has launched investigations into an incident at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, where unknown individuals disrupted a Sunday service by throwing a teargas canister.
In a statement, NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the incident occurred around 11AM during a service attended by several political leaders, including Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua.
The investigation follows a directive from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who condemned the incident and ordered the Inspector General of Police to conduct swift inquiries.
Murkomen also reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the tenets of democracy, including the right to lawful assembly and freedom of worship.
According to police reports, the teargas canister caused panic and forced the interruption of the service, with several vehicles also damaged within the church compound. No injuries were reported.
The NPS said the Central Region Police Commander immediately directed the Nyeri County Criminal Investigations Officer to secure the scene and commence investigations. The Inspector General of Police has also instructed the Internal Affairs Unit to probe the incident promptly.
“The nature of this incident is totally unacceptable and has no place in this country,” the NPS stated.
The service emphasized that places of worship should remain neutral spaces, free from political disputes or violence, describing churches as sanctuaries that must be respected.
Members of the public who witnessed the incident have been urged to report to the nearest police station.
