Ngara, Nairobi — August 5, 2025 — Tension gripped Shalom Grace Church in Ngara after a pastor, who is a licensed firearm holder, fired shots in the air to disperse a group of auctioneers attempting to seize church property.
Pastor Confronts Auctioneers With Firearm
The Monday evening incident unfolded dramatically when a group of auctioneers, armed with a court order from the Environment and Land Court in Milimani, arrived at the church compound to attach property over a civil dispute.
However, the auctioneers had not informed the local police of their intention to carry out the operation — a necessary step when dealing with sensitive locations such as places of worship.
According to police reports, as the auctioneers entered the compound without prior notice or escort, the church’s lead pastor walked out holding a Glock pistol and fired shots into the air, mistaking the group for intruders.
Police Intervene and Disperse the Group
Police officers on patrol rushed to the scene and quickly intervened. They confirmed that no one was injured, but the shots sent the auctioneers fleeing for safety.
Law enforcement later established that the auctioneers had failed to follow proper procedures, including notifying authorities, before attempting to enforce the court order.
The pastor was briefly detained and grilled by police but was released after explaining he believed the group posed a threat to his safety.
Legal Procedures Ignored by Auctioneers
Speaking to the media, a senior officer from Nairobi Central Police Station emphasized that anyone executing a court order must coordinate with local authorities to avoid misunderstandings or escalate tensions. Ignoring this protocol, especially in a sensitive area like a church, can lead to dangerous outcomes.
For example, The Judiciary of Kenya clearly outlines protocols for court order enforcement, including police accompaniment when deemed necessary.
Internal and External Reactions
The incident has sparked public debate on the use of firearms by civilians, even licensed holders, and the risks involved in enforcing civil judgments without police oversight.
You can read similar legal and civic enforcement stories on sauce.co.ke/legal-news, including our latest piece on Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura and Karen Nyamu denied access at Kasarani.
For more on firearm laws in Kenya, refer to the Firearms Licensing Board under the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.
Authorities Call for Calm and Proper Procedure
Nairobi police are now urging both religious institutions and legal enforcement officers to uphold procedures to avoid similar scenarios. Meanwhile, the church leadership has not commented on the ongoing legal dispute prompting the attempted seizure.
The Shalom Grace Church remains under watch by authorities as both parties prepare for the next legal steps.
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