Tragedy and Controversy: Church in Rongo Town Shut Down After Series of Deaths

In a deeply unsettling turn of events, a church in Rongo town, Migori County, Kenya, has been closed indefinitely following a series of disturbing incidents—including the discovery of two bodies and the rescue of 57 people from its compound.

The drama unfolded on the eve of Easter Monday, when a grieving family, accompanied by police officers, arrived at the church to recover the body of their deceased father. Church members claimed the man had requested to be buried on the premises—a practice that, while unconventional, had apparently occurred before. The confrontation led to a full-scale operation by authorities, during which 57 individuals, some reportedly sick or injured, were removed from the church grounds.

According to Rongo Deputy County Commissioner George Matundura, the operation was initiated following credible reports that individuals were being held and treated within the facility. “We acted upon credible information and have successfully evacuated 57 individuals. The sick are now receiving medical attention, and police are in control of the premises,” he stated.

This incident isn't isolated. In a previous case, a General Service Unit (GSU) officer was reportedly buried at the same church after a burial permit was obtained by his wife. These unconventional burial practices have raised serious questions about what exactly is going on behind closed doors at this religious institution.

Among those speaking out is Jacinter Achieng, the daughter of one of the deceased. She claims her father died as a result of injuries sustained during a mob attack targeting the church. According to her, it was his dying wish to be buried on the church grounds. “I fear I’ll be haunted for not honouring my father’s burial wishes,” she said.

Church members have defended their practices, denying any involvement in cult-like activity and rejecting claims that they discourage medical treatment. They insist that their actions are lawful and in line with the beliefs of their faith community.

However, with two bodies found, conflicting testimonies from family members and churchgoers, and a growing list of unanswered questions, authorities have taken firm action to close the church as investigations continue.

This case has reignited a national debate about oversight and regulation of religious institutions in Kenya. As the country has seen before, the line between spiritual devotion and exploitation can be dangerously thin—and when left unchecked, faith-based communities can become sites of tragedy instead of sanctuary.

For now, the community in Rongo remains shaken, and the country watches closely as the truth behind this church’s mysterious practices continues to unfold.

Click here to watch the video content:

https://youtu.be/rlF4kYBMW2Q?si=gasxk6Uw9urotlXl

Share to: