Police Deny Teargas Fired Inside Kariobangi Church Amid Chaos During Gachagua’s Visit

The National Police Service (NPS) has denied allegations that a teargas canister was lobbed inside the PCEA church in Kariobangi North on Sunday, November 30, 2025, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was attending a service.

The denial follows a chaotic incident outside the church premises that saw police intervene to disperse violent groups.

NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga released a statement correcting the misinformation, claiming the church management confirmed the canister did not land inside the sanctuary.

“The service also wished to correct misinformation alleging that a tear gas canister was thrown into the church. Church leadership has been contacted and has denied that this occurred. The service later resumed and concluded peacefully at 2 pm,” Nyaga said.

Clashes Erupt Over By-Election Victory

Chaos erupted outside the church after two rival groups of youths—one group allegedly sponsored to disrupt the event, and the other believed to be supporters of Gachagua—confronted each other.

Gachagua was leading a thanksgiving service for Democracy for the Citizens Party’s (DCP) Wanyoike Warui, who had won the Kariobangi North ward race in the by-elections held on November 27.

As the situation escalated, armed police officers quickly intervened, using teargas canisters and firing shots into the air to disperse the rowdy groups who had blocked the main road accessing the church. This confrontation temporarily halted the church service.

Six Injured, NPS Launches Investigation

The NPS confirmed that six individuals sustained injuries during the fracas, which they described as planned and premeditated.

NPS assured the public that the Nairobi Regional Commander, along with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), has launched a full investigation to uncover the perpetrators and sponsors of the chaos.

“The NPS takes great exception to such callous acts, particularly when directed at a place of worship, which is considered a sanctuary. We also extend our sympathies to the six individuals who were injured and wish them a speedy recovery,” Nyaga added, urging witnesses to come forward with information.

Gachagua Blames President Ruto

Following the incident, Gachagua vehemently castigated the attack, laying the blame directly at the feet of President William Ruto and leaders from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Gachagua accused the UDA administration of orchestrating a “sinister plan” and warned that such attacks would be detrimental to the administration’s public confidence.

“It is unfortunate and disturbing that William Ruto is turning Kenya into a militia Country where women, children, and churches have become his key targets of lethal attacks. You have desecrated the Altar and defiled a Holy Place, and for sure God will punish you,” Gachagua asserted.

He framed the attack as punishment for the people of Kariobangi North rejecting the UDA candidate in the recent by-election.