A worrying trend of church break-ins has gripped Kirinyaga County, prompting police to launch investigations into the escalating spate of robberies targeting places of worship.

The latest incident, which has left congregants in shock and disbelief, occurred at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) All Saints Gatwe.

Thieves reportedly broke into the church, making away with five bottles of communion wine, three television sets, and the church’s sound system.

According to Father David Warui, the church’s priest, Sunday’s service concluded without incident. However, this morning, they were alerted to a person screaming and praying inside the church, only to discover it was the church watchman, who had been tied up with ropes.

Father Warui estimates that the stolen equipment is worth over one million shillings, a significant loss for the parish.

Distraught congregants have vehemently condemned the sacrilegious attack, urging the government to conduct thorough investigations into the increasing cases of theft targeting churches in the region.

This incident follows another similar break-in just three weeks ago, where another ACK church in Mwea was ransacked. In that shocking episode, the thieves not only stole items but also reportedly consumed sacramental bread and communion wine, further highlighting the brazenness of these criminals.

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