In a shocking and deeply unsettling incident, Nyaguku Catholic Church in Kisii County was left reeling after unknown burglars staged a daring overnight break-in, making away with valuable church property.
The theft, which occurred under the cover of darkness, has sparked outrage among congregants and the wider community, raising serious concerns over the growing insecurity targeting places of worship.
According to parish officials, the criminals gained access to the church premises by dismantling one of the side windows, avoiding the main entrance which is typically secured with reinforced locks.
Once inside, the thieves carefully and systematically removed several critical items used in church operations, including a public address system, musical instruments, microphones, and an assortment of electrical equipment.
The burglary, which took place just days before a major church event, has left the faithful shaken. “It’s not just equipment that was stolen, it’s the spiritual heart of our congregation. These tools helped bring our community together in worship,” lamented Father James Ongeri, the parish priest. “The loss is both material and emotional.”
Local residents have condemned the act as sacrilegious and called on law enforcement to intensify investigations and bring the culprits to justice. The church has already reported the matter to local authorities, with detectives from the Kisii Central Police Station launching a probe.
In recent months, there has been an uptick in break-ins targeting religious institutions in Kisii and neighboring counties, suggesting an emerging pattern that demands urgent attention.
Security analysts warn that economic hardship and high youth unemployment may be fueling the spike in such crimes.
Meanwhile, the Nyaguku Catholic community is not giving up. Parishioners have begun a fundraising initiative to help replace the stolen items and restore the sanctity of their church.
As they come together in prayer and solidarity, they are sending a clear message: their faith may have been tested, but it remains unshaken.
