Police condemn Nyeri church attack, say perpetrators to be 'dealt with firmly'

During the Sunday incident, tear gas canisters were hurled inside the church, sparking fear and disrupting the service. In attendance was former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies. 

According to NPS, the disruption caused damage to a number of cars parked within the church grounds. There were no reported injuries.

The police service has condemned the attack, saying it is “completely unacceptable and has no place in this country." 

In a statement on Sunday, NPS warned that churches are sanctuaries, hence should not be at the centre of political differences or violence. 

“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,” it said.  

NPS further states that when the attack occurred, Nyeri County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) was instructed by the Regional Police Commander for Central Region to secure the scene and start 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,” NPS said in a statement on Sunday night.

Earlier, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also rebuked the attack, saying they would face the consequences of their actions. 

He characterized the events as a direct assault on democratic values.

“Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” said the Interior CS. 

He urged police to take action on perpetrators. 

“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,” Murkomen added.