‘I Thought We Would Lose Lives’ - Cleric Recalls Chaos as Gunshots Rock Church

Police officers disrupted a Sunday service at Witima Anglican Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, by firing tear gas and live ammunition as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended the worship.

The incident occurred as congregants gathered for the morning service led by the vicar, Reverend Stephen Migwi. According to church officials, police officers entered the church compound shortly after Mr Gachagua arrived. Tear gas was released inside the sanctuary, while gunshots were heard from outside the compound.

Worshippers fled in panic as smoke spread through the church. Witnesses said several children collapsed after inhaling tear gas, some women fainted, and elderly congregants were left distressed. Vehicles parked outside the church were vandalised during the operation.

Rev Migwi said the congregation was left confused and fearful by the police action. He said that the church was a place of worship and questioned why force was used against unarmed civilians during a religious service.

Senior church leaders strongly criticised the incident. Bishop Gerald Murithi of the Anglican Church Mt Kenya West Diocese visited the church the following day and described the events as a grave violation of a sacred space. He accused security officers of failing to protect worshippers and church property.

The National Council of Churches of Kenya called for a formal apology from the National Police Service, saying that the use of force inside a church was unacceptable. Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya warned against turning places of worship into sites of political conflict.

The incident has raised questions about political interference, with some observers suggesting the disruption was linked to Mr Gachagua’s presence. Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi denied any role in the events. Church officials maintained that the service was not political and that the congregation had gathered solely for worship.

Nyeri County Police Commander Kipchirchir Too said investigations were under way and assured the public that those responsible would be held accountable. He said the inquiry would be conducted impartially.