Holy Heist: Who’s Robbing the House of God?

A disturbing wave of church robberies is sweeping through Kirinyaga County, with police now launching investigations into at least five separate break-ins reported over the last three months. The most recent incident took place at All Saints ACK Gatwe Church, where unidentified robbers made away with valuable electronic equipment in a daring overnight heist.

According to the church leadership, the criminals gained entry by dismantling a rear window, disabling the church’s alarm system, and proceeding to loot sound systems, microphones, speakers, and a projector used during worship services.

*"They targeted exactly what they came for—our worship tools,"* said Rev. Peter Mwangi, the parish vicar. *"It’s heartbreaking, not just because of the stolen items, but because the sanctuary, our sacred place, was violated."*

The incident at All Saints ACK is the fifth church attack in the region within a span of three months. Other affected churches include two in Mwea East, one in Kerugoya, and another in Ndia constituency—each losing items ranging from public address systems to offering safes.

Kirinyaga County Police Commander John Kamau confirmed that detectives are investigating the incidents as part of a coordinated criminal pattern. He hinted at the possibility of an organized syndicate targeting churches due to their predictable structures, limited security, and valuable audiovisual equipment.

"We are pursuing leads, including surveillance footage and possible resellers in the black market,"Kamau told reporters. "Places of worship must be respected, and those involved will face the full force of the law."

The repeated thefts have left clergy and congregants shaken, with many now calling for enhanced security measures including community night patrols, CCTV installations, and tighter collaboration with local authorities.

Local faith leaders are urging the public to treat churches as sacred and inviolable. “Stealing from the house of God is not just a crime—it’s a moral collapse,”said Bishop Agnes Wanjiru of the Kirinyaga Interfaith Council.

No arrests have been made so far, but police have increased patrols in church-heavy neighborhoods and urged citizens to report any suspicious sales or activity related to second-hand church equipment.

As investigations continue, the affected churches are now forced to rebuild, not just their tech systems—but the sense of safety and sanctity their walls once guaranteed.