Armed Robbers Steal Sacred Covenant Box from Pastor Ezekiel Odero’s Kilifi Church
Police in Kilifi County have launched investigations into a daring overnight break-in at Pastor Ezekiel Odero’s New Life Church and Prayer Centre, where a group of armed intruders made away with several sacred items, including a highly valued covenant box reportedly imported from Israel.
According to Kilifi North Sub-County Police Commander Stanley Tonui, the robbery occurred late last night when five unidentified individuals, dressed in police-like jungle uniforms and wielding pangas, breached the church’s security by scaling the perimeter wall. Once inside, they stormed the main church hall, where they encountered three men in prayer.
The assailants allegedly blindfolded the worshippers, tied them with sisal ropes, and forced them to lie face down as they carried out the heist. Authorities have since arrested two church security guards and a 24-year-old suspect believed to be connected to the incident, as the investigation intensifies.
Among the stolen items was a symbolic religious artifact known as “Chuma ya meno saba”, alongside a gold-plated tray set that included a kettle and six cups. The exact value of these items is yet to be determined.
Speaking to the press, church administrator Samuel Dungah condemned the incident as an act of “pure disrespect and spiritual assault.” He emphasized the significance of the stolen covenant box, describing it as a consecrated item that was specially brought from Israel and blessed by Pastor Ezekiel himself.
“This was no ordinary theft. The covenant box was more than an artifact – it was a sanctified vessel of faith. Stealing it is a grievous offense not only to the church but to our beliefs,” Dungah lamented.
Despite the disturbing incident, Dungah confirmed that all church activities have resumed and that the faithful are continuing with prayers and services in a calm environment.
Police urge anyone with information to come forward as the search for the remaining suspects and the stolen items continues.
