The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has opened a probe into a violent incident that disrupted a church service at PCEA Mwiki in Kasarani, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other political figures were present.
In a statement issued on Monday, April 7, the DCI revealed that the chaos broke out shortly after the leaders arrived, when a large group of people on motorcycles descended on the church premises.
Authorities noted that the riders, said to have come from Kangundo Road, were trailing Gachagua’s convoy when they allegedly stormed the church compound and began making cash demands from the attending politicians.
“Over one hundred motorcycles carrying multiple passengers each entered the venue immediately after the political leaders, causing unrest as they demanded money from the dignitaries,” the DCI reported.
As tensions rose, gunfire was heard, prompting a swift response from officers at Mwiki Police Station.
Police managed to restore calm, detaining several individuals and impounding ten motorcycles left behind during the commotion.
Preliminary findings have established that the gunshots were discharged by licensed firearm holders, including VIP security officers, who were attempting to shield the guests and congregants from the disruptive crowd.
“The shots were fired by security personnel and licensed civilians in defense of the political leaders and the public, following damage to vehicles and church property by the rowdy group,” the agency confirmed.
The DCI assured the public that a full-scale investigation is underway to identify and prosecute those behind the incident, terming it a serious threat to public safety.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, commenting from Mombasa earlier in the day, condemned the incident and warned against the rise in politically motivated violence.
“There will be no room in this country for criminal gangs or political thugs to invade any space—be it a church, a school, or any other public area. We are committed to upholding the rule of law,” said Murkomen.
