In the wake of a tumultuous church event in Gatundu, Kiambu County, at least 15 suspects have been apprehended amidst escalating violence. This incident unfolded during a service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday, as clashes erupted between rival youth factions outside the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) in Kiamworia.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that those in custody are being interrogated for various offenses, including malicious damage to property. The violent confrontations resulted in injuries to several individuals, including three police officers, who sustained injuries from flying debris and were subsequently treated and released from a local hospital.
The chaos prompted police to deploy tear gas in an effort to disperse the armed youth, who wielded batons and engaged in a standoff outside the church. This disruption not only affected the congregants but also led to significant traffic interruptions along the Kiamworia–Gatundu South Road, with three vehicles vandalized and their windows shattered. One driver, accused of transporting the youths to the scene, firmly denied these allegations.
Witnesses described the atmosphere within the church as chaotic, with numerous congregants suffering from the effects of tear gas infiltration. As the situation escalated, police were able to regain control around 3 PM, allowing those trapped inside the church to exit safely.
In light of these events, Gachagua has pointed fingers at the government, claiming that state authorities deliberately allowed the chaos to unfold by sending “goons” to the church, while police remained focused on protecting these individuals. During his address, he also defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta against accusations of attempting to divide the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), emphasizing Kenyatta’s contributions to securing votes for his party in previous elections.
Additionally, Gachagua criticized certain leaders for neglecting to invest in educational infrastructure, underscoring his party’s commitment to building schools. He was joined by notable figures, including Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo.
This incident is not an isolated occurrence; Gachagua has previously alleged that disruptions at his events are orchestrated by government-affiliated individuals. However, police have refuted these claims and continue to investigate the incidents that have resulted in property damage, with some suspects already facing charges related to the unrest.
