Congregants of the All Saints Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) in Gatwe, Kirinyaga County, are in shock after thieves broke into the church, stealing five bottles of altar wine, three television sets, and the church’s sound system.
The value of the stolen items is estimated to be over one million Kenyan shillings.
Church priest David Warui reported that they concluded the church service without incident on Monday, but on Tuesday morning, they were alerted by a person praying and screaming inside the church. Upon investigation, they found the church watchman tied up with ropes.
“We had a normal service on Monday,” Rev. Warui said, “but this morning we were alerted by someone who heard shouting and prayer from inside. It turned out to be the watchman, tied up and left on the floor.”
Congregants have condemned the attack, calling on the government to conduct thorough investigations into the increasing cases of theft targeting churches.
This incident follows a similar break-in three weeks prior at another ACK church in Mwea, where thieves also consumed sacrament and church wine.
Police have launched investigations into the rising number of robberies targeting places of worship.
One visibly upset congregant stated, “This is not just theft, it’s a desecration. We hope those responsible are brought to justice swiftly.” Another congregant, Rose Kabue, expressed disbelief, saying, “I have never heard of such an occurrence…the suspects are inviting curses upon their households.
Security has become a growing concern for local faith communities, with church leaders calling for increased patrols and improved protection for places of worship, especially during overnight hours
