Police in Juja have arrested several individuals following a raid on a suspected sect shrine linked to alleged harmful and illegal practices, including reports of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The operation was carried out on Saturday morning after officers received a tip-off regarding the group’s activities in the area.
Authorities say members of the sect appeared to operate openly, displaying distinctive green, black, and white colours on their clothing as well as on the building they occupied. However, investigators say the group’s operations were suspected to involve unlawful practices.
Police Had Been Monitoring the Sect
According to Bernard Ngungu, the Police Commander for Juja sub-county, officers had been monitoring the group for some time before conducting the raid.
“There was a case we were investigating involving an illegal sect which was conducting its activities inside a shrine behind this area,” Ngungu said.
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Investigators believe the sect recently relocated to Kalimoni and had been under surveillance following reports of suspicious activities linked to its members.
Members Arrested as Police Storm Shrine
During the operation, several male members were handcuffed and placed in police vehicles before being taken into custody.
Despite the arrests, some members remained defiant and continued singing as officers escorted them away from the compound.
Women and children believed to be associated with the sect gathered nearby while police conducted the operation.
Police Recover Traditional Brew and Other Items
Officers also recovered several jerrycans containing traditional brew suspected to have been used during the sect’s gatherings.
Other items confiscated from the premises included animal hides, books, and posters outlining strict rules governing how women should dress.
Investigators say the sect reportedly enforces strict regulations that forbid women from wearing make-up, trousers, or short dresses. Members are also reportedly barred from using phones and laptops during service days.
Investigation Began Last Year
Police said investigations into the group began last year after authorities received reports about suspicious gatherings in the area.
“We visited the place at that time and the members were few. It appears they have since grown in number and are recruiting more followers. We understand they recently relocated here from another sub-county in Kiambu where they had been chased away,” Ngungu said.
Authorities have since shut down the shrine as investigations continue.
Police have warned that anyone found engaging in illegal or harmful practices will face legal action.
