The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the use of teargas by police officers against worshippers at Witima Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) in Othaya, Nyeri County.

The incident happened on Sunday, January 25, 2026, during a church service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other congregants, including women and children. Police officers lobbed teargas into the church compound, causing panic and injuries.

In a statement shared on X, LSK President Faith Odhiambo described the incident as a serious violation of the Constitution. She said the use of force against peaceful worshippers was unlawful and unacceptable.

“The Law Society of Kenya is deeply concerned by images of police officers lobbing teargas at congregants taking part in a church service in Othaya,” Odhiambo said.

“The indiscriminate use of violent force against church-going citizens, including children, offends every constitutional principle under which the National Police Service is bound to operate.”

Videos and photos from the scene showed chaos as worshippers ran for safety. Several people suffered injuries from teargas exposure and physical assaults. Parked vehicles sustained damage, and one vehicle belonging to Gachagua was set on fire.

Odhiambo said the police action violated multiple rights guaranteed under the Constitution. She cited the right to freedom of religion, freedom of association, human dignity, personal security, and the protection of children from all forms of violence.

“This onslaught on fundamental rights is detestable,” she said.

LSK said the incident betrayed the public’s long-standing demand for an end to police brutality and indiscipline. The society stressed that there was no clear threat that could justify the use of such force.

“There is no ascertainable threat posed by church congregants against peace, law and order to warrant such a brazen attack,” Odhiambo stated. She added that the actions amounted to an assault on both citizens and the Constitution.

The legal body also warned that such incidents could damage national cohesion, especially as the country approaches another election period.

“Such incidents pose a damning threat to tolerance and cohesion as we move towards a high-stakes electioneering period,” the statement said.

LSK demands police accountability

LSK called on the National Police Service to act immediately. It demanded a clear explanation of the events that led to the attack and a full report on disciplinary measures against the officers involved.

“It is high time firm action is taken against the weaponisation of state machinery against the people,” Odhiambo said.

The society also said it would offer legal support to victims of the incident. LSK plans to work with advocates on the ground to assess the extent of the violations and identify those in need of legal assistance.

Gachagua addressed the media after leaving the church under heavy protection from his security team and residents. He accused rogue police officers and other individuals of planning the attack.

He dismissed claims that the incident was staged.

“Where can we get access to tear gas? Where do we get access to AK-47 assault rifles?” Gachagua asked. “Kenyans are not foolish.”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the violence and ordered investigations into the incident. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja directed the Internal Affairs Unit to carry out a probe.

Several political leaders, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, also criticised the police for using force inside a place of worship.