The National Police Service (NPS) has denied claims it lobbed teargas into Kariobangi North PCEA Church during a Sunday thanksgiving ceremony for Kariobangi North MCA-elect David Warui.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Service said officers on duty observed a group of rowdy youths armed with crude weapons attempting to force their way into the church.
Reinforcements were called in, but moments later, a second group arrived and confronted the first, escalating the situation.
Police moved in to contain the clash, which briefly spilled into the church and disrupted the service, also attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who condemned the incident.
“The invasion came with stone-throwing and violence. Goons were sent to attack worshippers inside the church while women and children were present,” he said, further alleging that officers outside threw teargas into the sanctuary minutes later.
Gachagua criticized the use of force to break up religious gatherings, saying such intimidation only distances the public from the government.
However, police said they intervened to manage an out-of-control situation.
“Police moved in quickly to quell the escalating situation, which regrettably spilled into the church, temporarily disrupting the service,” the statement read.
The NPS added that six people were injured and taken to hospital, noting that the disturbances appeared “both planned and premeditated.”
To ensure the matter is fully addressed, the Nairobi Regional Police Commander and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have been directed to use all available resources to investigate the “callous and regrettable” incident.
“The Service also wishes to correct misinformation alleging that a tear gas canister was thrown into the church. Church leadership have been contacted and have denied that this occurred,” NPS said.
“The service later resumed and concluded peacefully at 2:00 pm.”
Police are also urging anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward and report to their nearest police station, any law enforcement officer, or use the toll-free numbers 999, 112, or #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203). Information can also be submitted via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
