The Kenya National Police Service on Sunday provided a formal update on ongoing investigations into recent security incidents, including events at Witima Church and other public gatherings, outlining investigative steps taken and appealing for public cooperation to support evidence-based conclusions and possible prosecutions.
In a press release issued on February 15, 2026, the Office of the Inspector General outlined steps taken so far in response to alleged criminal activity linked to the incidents.
“Upon receiving reports of alleged criminal activity, the Service promptly initiated investigations in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
The incident, which happened on January 25, 2026, saw a church service at St Peter’s African Church of Kenya (ACK) in Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County, thrown into chaos when a tear‑gas canister was lobbed into the building, disrupting worship and causing panic among congregants.
Several vehicles were also damaged within the church compound, though no injuries were officially reported.
The service, which was attended by Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, a former Deputy President, drawing national attention to the disturbance.
Police launched a formal investigation, with senior commanders instructing criminal investigators and the National Police Service’s Internal Affairs Unit to secure the scene and probe the incident with urgency.
In its official account, the National Police Service (NPS) described the occurrence as “deeply regrettable” and reiterated that places of worship are sanctuaries that have nothing to do with political differences or violence of whatever form or shape, warning that perpetrators will be dealt with under the law.
Gachagua has publicly alleged that the tear gas and disruption were part of a targeted escalation against him, including claims that the tear gas, live bullets and chaotic scenes suggested planning, though the police narrative focuses on the disruption itself and ongoing investigations without assigning responsibility.
According to the NPS update, officers have undertaken multiple investigative measures aimed at establishing what transpired and identifying those responsible.
“Officers have recorded statements, reviewed available footage, and analysed intelligence to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and to identify any individuals responsible.”
The Service emphasised that progress in such investigations depends heavily on public participation and formal complaints.
“As with all criminal investigations, the success and speed of the process depend significantly on formal reporting, detailed witness accounts, and the cooperation of complainants and members of the public,” the statement read.
While some initial steps were taken based on information already circulating publicly, the NPS reaffirmed the need for formal statements from those directly affected.
On a similar incident on February 15, 2026, a political rally in Kitengela, Kajiado County, convened by a faction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was abruptly disrupted when anti‑riot police officers fired tear‑gas canisters into the crowd.
The gathering which was part of the “Linda Mwananchi” tour and drew a large crowd to hear opposition leaders, including figures aligned with Sifuna.
Among those present were Siaya Governor James Orengo and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who addressed the assembled supporters before the intervention.
Videos and media reports showed thick clouds of teargas dispersing crowds, forcing boda‑boda riders, residents and youths to flee in different directions. One outlet reported that live bullets were heard in the air as officers sought to disperse the surging crowd.
Sifuna, speaking after the disruption, condemned the use of teargas and property damage, describing them as harassment, intimidation and violence that undermined peaceful political assembly.
He also said sound equipment and the rally dais were destroyed earlier that morning, and vowed not to relent in his political efforts.
Some political figures and commentators questioned whether only police officers should have access to tear‑gas canisters, calling for investigations into exactly who deployed them at the rally, although official clarification was pending at the time of reporting.
The Kitengela incident reaffirms both heightened tensions within political mobilisations, particularly within ODM as different factions contest leadership, and law enforcement’s contentious deployment of crowd‑control measures in political contexts.
While preliminary inquiries have been undertaken based on information in the public domain, comprehensive investigations require affected persons and witnesses to record official statements to enable evidence-based conclusions and possible prosecutions.
The police appealed directly to members of the public who may have information relevant to the cases under review.
“The NPS continues to appeal to anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist investigating officers,” the statement said.
It added, “This cooperation is essential to ensure that justice is not only pursued but demonstrably upheld.”
Beyond the specifics of the Witima Church incident and other gatherings, the Service reiterated its broader institutional commitments.
“The Service remains firmly committed to impartiality, professionalism, and adherence to the rule of law,” the statement said.
The NPS further emphasised that its mandate applies equally to all citizens, regardless of context.
“We reiterate that the National Police Service serves all Kenyans without fear or favour, and that all security concerns, regardless of political, social, or religious context, are handled with objectivity and in strict compliance with the Constitution.”
No details were provided about suspects, arrests or timelines for concluding the investigations. However, the statement made clear that the process is ongoing.
