Police Say No Injuries Reported After Chaos at Othaya Church

The National Police Service (NPS) has condemned the incident that occurred at St. Peters ACK Church, Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday, January 25, where several political figures, including DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, were present.

In a statement, NPS said police reports indicate that as the church service was underway, a teargas canister is said to have been thrown inside the building, disrupting the proceedings.

NPS said there are also reports of several vehicles being damaged within the church compound.

NPS stated that the Regional Police Commander for Central immediately directed the Nyeri Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) to secure the scene and commence investigations.

The service added that the Inspector General instructed the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to act urgently after being briefed on the incident, noting that no injuries were reported.

“The Regional Police Commander for Central immediately directed the Nyeri Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) to move in quickly and secure the scene and commence investigations. The Inspector General of the National Police Service, having been made aware of the incident, has directed the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to move in with speed and commence investigations with the deserved urgency. There were no reports of injuries,” NPS said.

Also Read: Rigathi Gachagua Speaks Out After Chaos at Othaya Church

Police Say Violence is Unacceptable

The NPS reminded Kenyans that it abhors violence in all its forms and that those who shall be found to have perpetrated this callous disruption of the church service shall be dealt with firmly and swiftly as per the law.

Additionally, it stated that Churches are sanctuaries and have nothing to do with political differences or violence of whatever form or shape.

” The nature of this incident is totally unacceptable and has no place in this country,” NPS added.

Also Read: Murkomen Discloses Details of Talks With IG Kanja Over Chaos at Gachagua-Attended Church Service

Plea to Witnesses

Further to the investigations already commenced, anyone who may have witnessed the incident is urged to contact the nearest police station, a law enforcement officer, or via the toll-free numbers: 999, 112, or #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203) or WhatsApp No. 0709 570 000.

NPS said it remains committed to ensuring that all forms of criminality are dealt with firmly while reaffirming our commitment to the safety and security of all Kenyans and restating the inviolability of the Freedom of Worship.