- Bethel Church in Kapkwen, Bomet, closed over allegations of ritual beatings.
- Two women, Mercy Rono and Mercy Cherotich, escaped and reported the abuse.
- Police are hunting for the pastor and other church officials.
- Authorities investigating possible cult connections.
- Public outrage as residents threaten to demolish the church.
Police in Bomet have shut down Bethel Church in Kapkwen, near Bomet town, following disturbing revelations that congregants were subjected to ritual beatings to “expel evil spirits.”
Bomet County Police Commander Edward Imbwaga confirmed that the closure followed complaints from two women, Mercy Rono (38) and Mercy Cherotich (30), who fled the church’s altar after enduring brutal beatings from the pastor and his ushers.
The women rushed to Kapkwen Police Station, where they narrated their ordeal. Medical examinations at Bomet Health Centre confirmed they had sustained multiple bruises.
After treatment, they were referred back to the police to document their injuries using P3 forms, an official step in assault cases.
Pastor and Church Officials on the Run
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the church’s pastor and other officials, who disappeared before police could apprehend them. Investigators are also probing the church’s registration status and its history of operations.
“We are investigating whether this institution was legally registered and whether such practices have been ongoing,” said Commander Imbwaga.
Public Outrage and Fears of Cultism
The shocking revelations have sparked widespread anger, with furious residents warning they might demolish the church if it is allowed to reopen.
Authorities are now examining whether the church’s practices bear similarities to cult activities, which are illegal in Kenya.
This incident comes in the wake of heightened government scrutiny on religious institutions, following the 2024 Shakahola massacre linked to Paul Mackenzie’s Good News International Church.
Mackenzie allegedly ordered his followers to starve to death in pursuit of heaven, leading to the discovery of over 400 bodies in mass graves. His church was officially declared a criminal organization, setting a precedent for crackdowns on illegal religious practices.
As investigations continue, Bomet residents await action against those behind Bethel Church’s alleged abuse.
