By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, January 25 2206 - A Sunday church service in Nyeri County descended into panic after teargas was hurled into the sanctuary, prompting a high-level police investigation and renewed calls to keep places of worship free from violence and politics.
The incident occurred at around 11am at St Peter’s ACK Church in Witima, Othaya, while congregants were attending a service that had drawn several political leaders, including Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua. Worshippers were forced to flee the building as the service came to an abrupt halt.
Police say an unidentified person threw a teargas canister into the church, triggering chaos within the compound. In the confusion that followed, several vehicles parked at the venue were reportedly damaged. No injuries were recorded.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable and a violation of the sanctity of places of worship. He directed the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to take over investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), the Regional Police Commander for Central Region immediately ordered the Nyeri County Criminal Investigations Officer to secure the scene and begin inquiries. The matter was later escalated to the IAU to ensure an independent and speedy probe.
In a statement, police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga reiterated that the NPS abhors violence in all its forms and warned that anyone found culpable would face firm and swift action in accordance with the law.
“Churches are sanctuaries. They have no place for political differences or violence of whatever form,” the statement read.
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The police appealed to members of the public with information about the incident to report to the nearest police station or contact authorities through toll-free lines 999, 112, #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203), or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
Following the disruption, Mr Gachagua said he was safe at his Wamunyoro residence and urged his supporters to remain calm and disperse peacefully.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also condemned the incident, terming it deeply troubling given that it occurred in a place of worship. Both leaders called for an impartial investigation and accountability for all those involved.
The NPS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the safety of all Kenyans and upholding the constitutional freedom of worship, insisting that violence — especially in sacred spaces — has no place in the country’s democratic life.
