Police probe Kariobangi church clash as six injured in youth fight
The incident occurred as the congregation celebrated the election of David Wanyoike as Kariobangi North Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) following the November 27 by-election.
Police have opened investigations into the violent outbreak at Kariobangi North PCEA Church on Sunday, where rival groups of youths clashed during a thanksgiving service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The incident occurred as the congregation celebrated the election of David Wanyoike as Kariobangi North Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) following the November 27 by-election.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), two police officers on security duty observed a group of rowdy youths armed with crude weapons attempting to force their way into the church and immediately called for reinforcements. Another group reportedly arrived, seemingly to confront the first, prompting police intervention to prevent further escalation.
The service said the disturbances appeared planned and premeditated. It confirmed that six individuals were injured and rushed to the hospital, although none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
“The nature of these disturbances appears both planned and premeditated. Nairobi Regional Police Commander, alongside the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), have been ordered to use all available resources and get to the bottom of this callous and regrettable incident,” NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said.
The police also dismissed reports that teargas had been deployed inside the church, clarifying that the clergy confirmed no chemical agents were used.
However, videos shared online showed congregants covering their noses with handkerchiefs as teargas drifted through the area, leaving many choking. Sunday school children were also caught up in the chaos, coughing and crying from the effects of the gas.
Police noted that the service resumed later and concluded peacefully at 2:00 pm.
Witnesses described the attack as sudden and violent.
During the service, Gachagua accused President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja of orchestrating intimidation against his supporters.
“Governor, my people voted for you. Why do you agree to be used by Ruto to send goons to bring mayhem to the people from my community?” he posed.
Also in attendance were DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and Embakasi North MP James Gakuya. The Democratic Citizens Party (DCP) secured three MCA seats during last week’s mini polls, including in Narok Town (Douglas Masikonde) and Kisa East Ward, Kakamega County (Aduda Okwiri).
Gachagua also hinted at a political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election, suggesting a partnership with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to consolidate support in Nairobi.
“We have agreed that we will have a governor, senator and woman representative on the DCP ticket. Between Kalonzo and me, we plan to secure 16 of the 17 National Assembly seats and 73 of the 85 ward seats in Nairobi,” he said.
He further distanced himself from the Mbeere North by-election loss, asserting his party did not officially field a candidate there and accusing the government of interfering with the vote.
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“Many pundits are calling me a loser in Mbeere North, which is not the case. They are ignoring that my new party won three out of five contests,” he said, adding that security forces were collaborating with militias to intimidate opposition supporters.
The NPS has called on anyone with information about the incident to come forward through local police stations, toll-free numbers 999, 112, #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203), or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000.
The Service reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Kenyans.
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