Police in Kilifi have launched investigations into a bold overnight robbery at Pastor Ezekiel Odero’s New Life Church and Prayer Centre, where five armed intruders stole a sacred covenant box and other valuables.
Kilifi North Police Commander Stanley Tonui confirmed the Sunday night incident, stating that officers have arrested two security guards and a 24-year-old suspect linked to the break-in. Investigations are ongoing as police work to identify the remaining culprits.
The attackers also made off with a unique item known as “Chuma ya meno saba” and a gold-plated serving set, which includes a tray, kettle, and six cups. Authorities have not yet established the full value of the stolen items.
According to a police report, the five suspects, disguised in police jungle fatigues and armed with pangas, scaled the church’s perimeter wall under the cover of darkness. Once inside the church hall, they found three men in prayer, whom they blindfolded, tied up using sisal ropes, and forced to lie on the floor while they carried out the theft.
New Life Church Administrator Samuel Dungah condemned the incident, calling it an act of deep disrespect and hate. He stressed that the stolen covenant box held spiritual significance for the congregation.
“The covenant box was imported from Israel,” Dungah said. “Pastor Ezekiel prayed over it, blessed it, and placed it in the church.”
Dungah described the break-in as heartbreaking but assured the public that church activities remain unaffected.
“We’re treating this as a normal theft for now while we wait for the police to complete their investigations,” he added.
