Two dead in Shakahola-like cult

By Newsflash Writer

A chilling incident unfolded on Monday night in East Kamagango, Rongo, Migori County, where two people were found dead, and 57 others were rescued from a church under disturbing circumstances.

The event took place at St. Joseph Missions of Messiah Church, located in Kanyadiedo Sub-Location.

This church had already gained notoriety when General Service Unit (GSU) officer Dan Ayoo Obura died there on March 27, reportedly refusing medical help before his passing. Obura’s death led to his burial within the church grounds.

The recent discovery of two bodies is another sign of the alleged exploitation of vulnerable congregants. After the authorities were alerted about a body at the church, detectives found Francis Muli’s body inside a prayer room, covered in a white robe and wrapped in a grey sheet. The body showed signs of facial injuries, with foam oozing from the mouth.

Earlier in the day, another body had been recovered from the premises.

Victims refuse medication

Following the discovery, authorities searched the area and found 57 individuals residing within the church. Despite being taken to Rongo Sub-County Hospital for medical treatment, the rescued individuals, mostly women and girls, refused to undergo any examinations. Among the elderly rescued were Clarice Were, aged 77, and James and Elizabeth Odhiambo, aged 75 and 55, respectively.

Some of the rescued individuals, particularly the younger ones, repeatedly chanted religious songs and called themselves “Haleluhya.” Their loud behavior eventually led medical staff to advise removing them from the hospital due to their disturbance of other patients. The group was subsequently taken to the police station for further investigation.

Locals have expressed concern about the secrecy surrounding the church, noting that its gates are locked, and the perimeter wall is high enough to block any view of activities inside. One resident remarked on the authorities’ failure to take action despite knowing about the church’s existence.

Reports from detectives revealed that the congregants were isolated from the outside world, had no access to food, and some hadn’t communicated with their families in months. This follows an earlier incident on March 27, when a police officer was mysteriously buried in the church. His wife, Lilian Olal, claimed he was seeking prayers when he suddenly passed away. Some of Obura’s family members have since voiced concerns about the church’s influence on him, alleging that he had been radicalized.

This case comes amidst growing concerns about certain religious groups allegedly engaging in extreme practices. A recent study by the National Crime Research Centre (NCRC) has highlighted human rights abuses, including unlawful killings, coercion, and incitement by some religious organizations. The NCRC called for stronger law enforcement measures to curb these criminal activities while also respecting religious freedoms.