CCTV Footage Shows Naked Thug Raiding St. Mark Gitugi Church Days After Hosting Gachagua

MATHIOYA, Kenya — Chilling CCTV footage circulating online shows a naked man armed with a torch raiding ACK St. Mark Gitugi Church, stealing property, and damaging the facility just days after the church hosted a service featuring former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other opposition leaders.

Eyewitnesses say the assailant stormed the Mathioya church compound in the early hours, making off with the church’s sound system and other equipment. 

The footage, seen by Y News, shows the suspect operating with apparent impunity before fleeing the scene.

The raid has shocked congregants and local residents, coming shortly after a service attended by Gachagua and opposition figures, which drew hundreds of worshippers and supporters. 

The gathering followed heightened political tensions after a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, where Gachagua was tear-gassed alongside worshippers.

While police have not linked the Mathioya raid to any political motive, its timing and audacity have raised concerns among opposition activists. 

Some community leaders suggest the attack may have been intended to intimidate supporters and religious gatherings allied with the United Opposition, claims authorities have not confirmed or denied.

Earlier in Othaya, Gachagua alleged that a “killer squad” of plain-clothes security officers unleashed tear gas and live bullets inside Witima ACK Church, forcing worshippers to flee. 

Churches have increasingly become flashpoints in political clashes, with several incidents targeting services attended by Gachagua or his allies.

Opposition figures condemned the Mathioya attack. Democracy for the Citizens Party Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala warned such incidents risk escalating nationwide unrest if perpetrators are not held accountable. 

Malala also threatened broad protests if police accused of violence at places of worship are not arrested or dismissed.

Residents told reporters they were particularly disturbed by the suspect’s state of undress, viewing it as a deliberate attempt to humiliate and intimidate the congregation.

Police confirmed the CCTV footage is under review and said investigations are ongoing, though no arrests have yet been made. 

The National Police Service recently reassured the public of its commitment to tackling crime and apprehending perpetrators of violent raids captured on CCTV across the country.