The National Police Service (NPS) has launched investigations into the disruption of a church service at St. Peter’s ACK Church in Witima, Othaya Sub-County, Nyeri County, following an incident where a tear gas was released inside the church.
The incident took place on Sunday 25th January 2026, during a service attended by the former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua and several of his political allies. The police say that unknown individuals tossed tear gas canisters directly into the church, causing panic among the congregation and forcing the service to be brought into an abrupt halt.
In a statement, the NPS confirmed that no injuries were reported, however, several vehicles parked within the church compound were damaged during the chaos that ensued.
The service condemned the act, describing it an unacceptable and goes against the sanctity of places of worship.
“The police service has condemned the attack, saying it is ‘completely unacceptable and has no place in this country’”, the statement read.
NPS further emphasized that churches across the country should never be used as arenas for political confrontation or violence, noting that such actions undermine public safety and social harmony.
“The NPS wishes to remind Kenyans that it abhors violence in all its forms and 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”, said the NPS.
Following the incident, the Nyeri County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) issued a directive to the Regional Police Commander for the Central Region to have the scene secured and initiate investigations.
The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja also instructed the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to immediately take over the probe.
“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”, NPS stated.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the attack, describing it as a threat to democratic values and religious freedom. “Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable”, Murkomen said, urging the police to act decisively.
“The police must move without fear or favour and deal decisively with the sponsors and perpetrators of this act without regard to their status in society or political affiliation’, he added.
The NPS reiterated on its commitment to ensuring that all forms of criminality are dealt with firmly while reaffirming the members of the public on its commitment to the safety and security of all Kenyans and restating the inviolability of the freedom of worship.
