The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an investigation following a violent incident at PCEA Mwiki, Kasarani where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other political leaders were in attendance.
In a statement on Monday, April 7, the DCI said the chaos erupted when a large group of individuals arrived on motorcycles shortly after the political entourage.
According to the investigating agency, the group reportedly began demanding money from the leaders, causing a disturbance within the church grounds.
"According to local authorities, over a hundred motorcycles ferrying two to three pillion passengers arrived at the church venue from Kangundo Road, right behind the former DP entourage, who allegedly started causing commotion in the church, demanding money from the politicians," the statement read.
DCI said the situation escalated with reports of gunshots, prompting a response from police officers stationed at Mwiki Police Station.
Read More
"Police at Mwiki Police Station heard gunshots at the church grounds, and were mobilised to repulse the goons, who retreated and normalcy returned. Several of them, alongside 10 abandoned motorcycles, were detained at the Mwiki station," the statement continued.
According to DCI, investigations have since confirmed that the shots were fired by VIP security personnel attempting to defend the political leaders and congregants.
“So far, it has been established that the gunshots heard at the church were fired by the VIP security personnel and civilian licensed firearm holders in their bid to protect the leaders from the rowdy group, which was already causing damage to parked cars and other church property,” the statement added.
The DCI has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, confirming that it is treating the matter with urgency.
"The ongoing investigations aim to bring to book those responsible for the regrettable incident, which is one among several that have been witnessed recently in various parts of the country," the statement further read.
Earlier Monday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned against political violence and gang activity following the incident.
Speaking in Mombasa, the CS reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding public spaces from criminals.
“Part of the reason why we are dealing with gangs is to make sure that there is no place in Kenya where we will allow any goons or gangs to invade any facility, whether it's a church, school, or a street. This country must be led by the rule of law," he stated.
