Police are now blaming the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) in Mwiki, Nairobi, for a fracas caused by goons who stormed a Sunday service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The service was interrupted by gunshots after the intruders barged into the church, demanding money from Gachagua. His security detail was forced to fire shots into the air to disperse the intruders.
Although police have stated that investigations into the incident are underway, they have accused the church of failing to inform the Mwiki Police Station about Gachagua’s attendance in advance.
“Mwiki police command has stated that the church failed to notify the police of the planned function, which included political leaders, and therefore, no advance security measures were deployed to handle such an eventuality,” said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in a statement yesterday evening.
According to the DCI, more than a hundred motorcycles ferrying two to three pillion passengers arrived at the church from Kangundo Road. The intruders then began causing a commotion in the church, demanding money from politicians.
“Police at Mwiki Police Station heard gunshots at the church grounds and were mobilised to repel the goons, who then retreated and normalcy was restored. Several of them, along with 10 abandoned motorcycles, were detained at the station,” said the DCI.
Detectives revealed that the gunshots were fired by VIP security personnel and civilian licensed firearm holders who were attempting to protect the leaders from the rowdy group.
“The ongoing investigations aim to bring to book those responsible for this regrettable incident, which is one of several witnessed recently in various parts of the country,” said the DCI.
Meanwhile, the National Police Service urged the public to avoid conduct that could undermine peace and security.
“Incidents involving violence and intimidation not only tarnish the sanctity of community events but also pose a significant threat to the well-being of all attendees,” said the police.
The law enforcement officers emphasised that it was crucial for individuals to express their concerns through proper channels, rather than resorting to disorderly behaviour that could lead to serious consequences.
“Let us work together to foster an environment of safety and security during public gatherings,” read the police statement.
