Police in Kisii have apprehended Brian Magare, a middle-aged man accused of attacking worshippers with a knife at Deliverance Church International on Sunday.
The incident, which resulted in injuries to three individuals, including a senior police officer, occurred during a sermon delivered by Reverend Peter Rotich.
According to Kisii County Police Commander Charles Kases, Magare stormed the church while Reverend Rotich was speaking and made a move towards the pulpit.
Church orderlies, along with Kisii Central sub-County police boss Isaac Kimwele, intervened to prevent the suspect from reaching the stage.
Magare attempted to flee but was swiftly detained by police officers deployed at the scene.
Kases confirmed that Magare is currently in custody at Kisii Central Police Station and will be presented in court following the completion of investigations.
The motive behind the attack is still unclear, and police are working to uncover the reasons for the violent outburst.
Isaac Kimwele, who was attending the service as a worshiper, was among those injured.
Mr. Simon Onditi, a church official, described the attacker as wearing a mask and sunglasses and acting suspiciously.
Onditi recounted how Magare, after being intercepted, drew a concealed knife and injured him before charging towards the front of the church.
The incident has raised concerns about security in places of worship.
Kases highlighted that officers had been stationed at the church for added security following a request from the church’s management.
In a related incident, ten people were injured in a fight at Nyabigena Seventh Day Adventist Church in South Mugirango earlier this month.
This altercation involved factions within the church and has led to police intervention.
Local resident Ms. Hyline Bitutu expressed her distress over the recent spate of violence in churches, questioning the state of societal values.
The church, located between Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Kisii Campus and Oasis Specialist Hospital, previously received praise from President William Ruto for its design and the congregation’s efforts in building a place of worship.
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