Seven men have been taken into custody in connection with the violent clashes that erupted at a Kariobangi church service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday, November 30.

This move signals a significant step in an investigation that addresses the troubling intersection of politics and public safety. The incident, which saw rival groups clash and disrupt a place of worship, has put a spotlight on the use of hired gangs to settle political scores, a concern that directly impacts the security of ordinary Kenyans.

The National Police Service (NPS) confirmed the arrests in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the suspects were apprehended in the Lucky Summer area. NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga stated the individuals are being processed and will be arraigned in court.

Those arrested were identified as:

• Charles Otieno Opiyo
• Wilson Okoth
• Michael Mutunga Kavulunze
• Brian Omondi Odhiambo (alias “Bryo”)
• Reggy Opiyo Otwole
• Elisha Otieno Ochieng
• Gordon Odhiambo Onyango

Investigations Deepen as Police Appeal for Witnesses

The probe is far from over. The NPS emphasized that more arrests are expected as investigators analyze evidence, including photographic and acoustic reports from the scene. The confrontation, which police described as “planned and premeditated,” left at least six people injured.

The violence broke out during a thanksgiving service for the newly elected Kariobangi North Member of County Assembly, David Wanyoike. Eyewitnesses reported that youths arriving on motorbikes and armed with crude weapons attempted to force their way into the PCEA Kariobangi North church, leading to running battles that required police to fire teargas to restore order.

Mr. Gachagua has publicly accused his political rivals of orchestrating the attack as retribution for his party's victory in the recent by-election. In the wake of the incident, President William Ruto ordered the Inspector General of Police to take firm action against criminal gangs used by politicians.

The NPS has urged the public to support the ongoing investigation by sharing any relevant information with their nearest police station or through toll-free hotlines.