Controversial Pastor Surrenders After Brutal Attack on Wife

• Nov 25, 2024

Pastor Elias Njeru of the controversial JCM Church turned himself in to police in Nakuru on Monday, November 25, 2024. Accompanied by his lawyer from Gakuhi Chege and Associates Advocates, Njeru was immediately re-arrested and is currently being held at Nakuru Police Station. Authorities plan to transfer him to Menengai Police Station, where the case was initially reported.

The pastor is accused of a brutal knife attack on his wife, Florence Wanjiku Gichohi, which left her with severe injuries. Florence, speaking from her hospital bed at Optimum Hospital, recounted the horrific ordeal. She revealed that the couple had met earlier that day at an entertainment venue to discuss personal and business issues. After what seemed to be a cordial meeting, she returned home, unaware that Njeru had followed her.

As she arrived at her gate, Njeru allegedly dragged her from her car and stabbed her 18 times in a violent assault. Florence, in her desperate attempts to shield herself from the knife, lost several fingers. Despite her severe injuries, she survived and managed to recount the events to police.

Adding to her trauma, Florence disclosed that Njeru later appeared at the hospital, demanding to see her. Security personnel at the facility denied him access, possibly preventing further harm.

Florence, a mother of two, shares a 2-year-old child with Njeru. The couple has also worked together in the property business. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with speculation ranging from personal grievances to business disputes.

The incident has sparked outrage, with women leaders and human rights groups condemning the attack and calling for swift justice. Many have taken to social media and public forums to express solidarity with Florence, demanding an end to gender-based violence.

Police have assured the public that thorough investigations are underway, and formal charges against Njeru are expected soon. Meanwhile, Florence continues her recovery as the public rallies around her, hoping her case will serve as a wake-up call to address violence against women in Kenya.

The brutal nature of the attack has left many questioning how such violence can be prevented and has renewed calls for stronger measures to protect women from abuse.