Authorities have shut down Bethel Church in Kapkwen, on the outskirts of Bomet town, following disturbing revelations that its pastor, assisted by ushers, subjected congregants to physical beatings as part of a ritual meant to “expel demons.”
Bomet County Police Commander Edward Imbwaga confirmed that the decision to close the church was prompted by an alarming incident in which two women, Mercy Rono (38) and Mercy Cherotich (30), were subjected to severe beatings during a church session. Unable to withstand the physical abuse, the women fled from the altar and reported the matter to Kapkwen Police Station.
Medical examinations at Bomet Health Centre confirmed that the victims had sustained multiple bruises across their bodies. Bomet County Health Chief Officer Felix Langat noted that after receiving initial treatment, the women were referred back to the police to complete a P3 form, a crucial step in documenting their assault case.
Authorities have since launched a manhunt for the church pastor and other suspects involved in the incident, as they managed to escape before law enforcement arrived. The police are also investigating the church’s registration status and its operational history, seeking to determine how such practices were allowed to continue unchecked for an extended period.
“We are conducting inquiries to establish whether the church is legally registered and how it has been operating for so long. Reports indicate that most of its members are women,” Commander Imbwaga stated.
The incident has sparked outrage among members of the local community, many of whom have expressed their frustration with what they consider a blatant abuse of religious authority. Some residents have threatened to demolish the church building if authorities permit it to reopen.
Religious practices that involve physical harm have increasingly come under scrutiny in Kenya, where a growing number of cases of abuse under the guise of spiritual healing have been reported. This latest incident in Bomet highlights the need for stringent measures to regulate religious institutions and protect worshippers from harm.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding the church’s activities to come forward. Meanwhile, the search for the pastor and his accomplices remains ongoing, with police determined to bring them to justice.
The closure of Bethel Church serves as a stark reminder that religious freedom does not extend to practices that endanger lives. Law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that such abuses do not go unpunished, sending a strong warning to any institutions engaging in harmful activities under the pretense of faith.
