Residents of Njathaini and Gituamba villages in Gatundu North, Kiambu County, are deeply concerned about a surge in burglaries targeting local churches. These criminal acts have resulted in the theft of valuable property, amounting to millions of shillings.
According to reports from the locals, a group of notorious criminals has been targeting churches in the area over the past two weeks. These criminals have successfully broken into approximately five churches, making off with musical instruments and electronics worth a significant sum of money. Among the affected churches are the Full Gospel Churches of Kenya, the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), the African Inland Church (AIC), and the Seventh Day Adventist.
The residents, who are active members of these churches, assert that the perpetrators, armed with crude weapons, carry out their activities under the cover of night. John Kigotho, the chairman of the ACK church in Njathaini village, disclosed to reporters on April 8, 2024, that his church fell victim to a break-in on the previous Monday night. The stolen items included a Piano and a water dispenser valued at Ksh94,000. Kigotho, also a respected village elder, suspects that unemployed youths are behind these crimes, preferring easy gains over legitimate employment opportunities. He points out that these individuals often spend their days loitering at a local bar near Njathaini primary school.
In response to the escalating situation, Kigotho has urged authorities in Gatundu North to take action against the liquor joint, which he believes serves as a gathering place for criminals who terrorize the community at night.
Similarly, at the AIC church in Gituamba village, elder Francis Ndung’u reported that the burglars forcibly entered the premises by breaking three doors. They managed to steal two guitars valued at Ksh70,000. Ndung’u attributes the rise in insecurity to the idleness of young men in the village, who prioritize alcohol consumption over productive activities.
Fortunately, members of the Full Gospel Church in Njathaini village were able to safeguard their belongings by storing them in a secure location outside the church premises following the previous break-ins. Peter Githua and Anastacia Njeri, church members, recounted how they had taken proactive measures a day before the burglary by relocating their valuables.
The concerned residents are calling on local authorities to enhance security measures, particularly through increased night patrols, to curb these criminal activities. They also demand a thorough investigation into the incidents and the apprehension of the perpetrators.
Geoffrey Ng’ang’a of the ACK emphasizes the need for law enforcement to dismantle the criminal network responsible for targeting church assets. He suggests that there may be a thriving black market for the stolen musical instruments and electronics, urging authorities to take decisive action against this illicit trade.
