A Nairobi court has allowed detectives to detain five suspects for 10 days as investigations continue into the violent disruption of a meeting at All Saints’ Cathedral.
The suspects — George Omondi Otieno, Effenburg Wanyama Khisa, Melvin Alumasa Bwani, and two others — were arraigned over charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, robbery, theft, and threats to life. They are being held at Kibera Police Station.
Investigating Officer Odhiambo Weke told the court that preliminary findings link the suspects to an organised criminal network known as “Chini ya Mnazi”, believed to operate within Mathare North. The case is scheduled for mention on June 30, 2026.
Violent Disruption of Church Meeting
The court heard that on June 12, a group of about 200 boda boda riders stormed the cathedral grounds during a budget review meeting, violently disrupting the proceedings and forcing attendees to flee in panic.
Police officers at the scene were reportedly forced to fire warning shots to restore order.
CCTV Evidence and Ongoing Manhunt
Weke informed the court that CCTV footage has positively identified some of the suspects, and investigators believe the attack was coordinated by individuals operating behind the scenes. Additional suspects captured on camera are still being pursued.
The prosecution opposed bail, arguing that the suspects pose a flight risk after going into hiding immediately after the incident. Investigators also cited the complexity of the case, noting ongoing efforts to trace financial links and establish the role of hired operatives.
Allegations of Political Financing
The case has also taken a political dimension after one of the alleged hired participants told Citizen TV that the group was financed by a Member of Parliament and supported by plain-clothes police officers during execution of the operation.
He claimed the group was initially told they would disrupt a meeting linked to opposition leader Rigathi Gachagua, but the target allegedly changed upon arrival in the city centre.
According to his account, each participant was promised KSh 2,000 and instructed to arrive on motorcycles in pairs.
Church and National Reactions
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has condemned the incident, urging the Inspector General of Police to ensure that all those involved are arrested and prosecuted.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
