Pressure Increases: IG Kanja Says Witima Church Attack Probe Ongoing As Opposition Visits Vigilance House

By Our Correspondent

Investigations into recent security incidents, including the attack at Witima ACK Church in Othaya and disturbances at other public gatherings, remain active, the National Police Service has said.

The update comes ahead of a planned visit to Vigilance House by leaders of the United Opposition, who say they want a formal briefing from Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on the status of the inquiries.

Opposition figures led by DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua announced they will walk to the Inspector General’s office on Monday, February 16, after the lapse of a two-week ultimatum they had issued demanding action.

Speaking during a church service in Roysambu on Sunday, Mr Gachagua said they would seek answers over what he termed delays in investigating the attack at Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County.

“We want to know who attacked the church and why they have not been prosecuted. So tomorrow, we will go to the office to know why those who harmed women and children have not been arraigned,” he said.

The former Deputy President accused the police leadership of failing to fast-track investigations despite what he described as available evidence linking some officers to the chaos.

The planned visit follows an earlier march on January 30 by opposition leaders to Vigilance House in Nairobi, where they raised concerns over alleged harassment and attacks targeting their events.

Those present at the January march included Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, PLP leader Martha Karua, former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, DCP deputy party leader Cleophas Malala and former nominated senator Gloria Orwoba.

Mr Malala said at the time that several incidents had been reported to police stations across the country but no updates or corrective measures had been communicated.

On January 25, Mr Gachagua claimed he was attacked by goons and police officers while attending a service at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya. He alleged that tear gas and live ammunition were used, creating panic among congregants.

“William Ruto has sent a killer squad to kill us inside Wtima ACK church, Othaya. We are marooned in church, being attacked with live bullets and tear gas, and have torched my vehicles,” he said then.

In a press statement dated February 15, the Office of the Inspector General said investigations relating to recent security incidents, including events reported at Witima Church and other public gatherings, were ongoing.

The Service said it had recorded statements, reviewed available footage and analysed intelligence to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and identify those responsible.

It added that the success of the investigations depended on formal reporting, detailed witness accounts and cooperation from members of the public.

“The Service remains firmly committed to impartiality, professionalism, and adherence to the rule of law,” the statement signed by Director of Corporate Communication and Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga reads.

“We reiterate that the National Police Service serves all Kenyans without fear or favour, and that all security concerns—regardless of political, social, or religious context—are handled with objectivity and in strict compliance with the Constitution.”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen earlier condemned the violence at the church, saying he was disturbed by what happened in a place of worship.

“I have noted with great concern the incident at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County. Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” he said.

Mr Murkomen said he had engaged Inspector General Kanja and received assurances that swift action was being taken to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.

The opposition has maintained that it will proceed with Monday’s visit to seek what it terms a clear and public update on the progress of the investigations.