Investigation after thieves ransack ACK Kithara-ini church in Kirinyaga

According to Reverend Susan Murimi, the vicar in charge of the Katharaini-Ichang'i Parish, the stolen items included three microphones, two speakers, and amplifier systems, all of which were purchased just last year.

"I'm getting worried about what will happen during next Sunday's service," Reverend Susan expressed.

"Without the public address system, it has become almost like a syndrome—when it's not there, people stand, they don't sing, and they don't pray. The church service becomes very boring."

Elizabeth Gatembu, a church worker, was the first to discover the break-in.

She arrived early to clean and open the church for workers involved in ongoing construction. Upon finding the church door ajar, she immediately notified the church secretary, who in turn alerted Reverend Susan.

"I had come to wash and open the church when I found the door open," Gatembu said.

"I quickly informed the secretary, who then called the Reverend, and she arrived right away."

Church treasurer Mwangi Wambiri reported the incident to Gathoge Police Station, and detectives from Kianyaga Police Station responded promptly to the scene. Wambiri expressed growing concerns over the increasing cases of insecurity in the area. "We suspect that the thieves are from this locality," he said.

"They've been stealing livestock, and now they've started targeting churches."

Reverend Susan voiced similar concerns, noting that the community is now fearful that churches have become prime targets for criminals.

"It is very sad that people in this area are not only targeting the community but are also attacking church property," she lamented. "They broke the door, stole items, and even took the padlock. It's a destructive act."

Local police in Gichugu Sub-County confirmed that investigations into the theft are ongoing.

Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant as they continue to probe the rise in criminal activities targeting places of worship.