Police close down Maina Njenga's church

Maina Njenga. [PHOTO: STANDARD]

KAJIADO COUNTY: Controversy continues to dog former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga. Sunday, armed police officers closed down the church in Kitengela associated with Njenga, citing security concerns.

More than 100 worshipers, who had turned up at the Hope International Ministries Church, were requested to leave by a contingent of armed officers. The officers drawn from Isinya District arrived at the church a few minutes past 9am and asked the faithful to leave.

Njenga's home is still under the guard of 10 armed officers.

Authorities cited intelligence reports that Maasai morans planned to attack worshipers. This came a day after authorities stopped the burial of Njenga's wife at his home in Kitengela and escorted him under heavy security to avert confrontation with members of Maasai community.

Although the worshipers complied with the order, some questioned the motive. ''I had come for a church service as usual and did not expect to be barred from the palce. I am aware that there is a faction currently tussling with our Bishop (Maina) but I don't see its relation to the church,'' said a member of the church.

Addressing journalists, Kajiado County Deputy Commander Joel Lang'at cited intelligence reports warning of violence. ''This is a security matter and we are not taking chances. We have assessed the situation and found it prudent to close the church to avoid confrontation between the community and Njenga's followers,'' said Lang'at.

He further said they have beefed up security in the area to avoid chaos. Peter Maingi, the church's pastor said followers are ready to co-operate with authorities though they are yet to understand the basis for the closure.

Armed morans who were planning to cause havoc had the church service proceeded dispersed, saying they were satisfied with the closure.