Two women in Bomet County, Kenya, are recovering from injuries after their pastor allegedly beat them during an exorcism ritual.
The shocking incident, which took place at a church in the Kapkwen area, has sparked outrage and prompted a police investigation.
The women, identified as Mercy Rono (38) and Mercy Cherotich (30), reportedly attended a prayer session at the church when the pastor claimed they were possessed by evil spirits. Witnesses say the pastor, along with a few church assistants, began beating the women with sticks, insisting that the physical punishment would drive out the spirits.
As the pain became unbearable, the two women managed to escape and reported the ordeal to the police. By the time officers arrived at the church, the pastor and those involved had already fled, leaving behind a shaken congregation. Authorities have since launched a manhunt, urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to their arrest.
The incident has raised concerns about certain religious practices and the potential for abuse under the guise of spiritual deliverance.
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Local leaders and human rights activists have condemned the act, calling for greater oversight of religious institutions to prevent such cases in the future.
Meanwhile, the two women are receiving medical treatment for their injuries and counseling to help them cope with the traumatic experience. Police continue to investigate whether this was an isolated case or part of a broader pattern of mistreatment within the church.
While, the search for the pastor continues, the community remains on edge, questioning how such an incident could occur within a place meant to provide spiritual guidance and healing. Authorities have vowed to bring those responsible to justice, ensuring that religious practices do not become a cover for violence and abuse.