Three church leaders charged in connection with an alleged exorcism ritual that left four children with severe burns at St. Abraham Israel Assemblies of God Church in Bondo Sub-County, Siaya County, have been released on bond.
Gaudensia Juma, Steven Omondi and Clinton Obudho appeared before Bondo Resident Magistrate Christabel Maiyo, where they denied charges relating to the incident involving the minors.
The court heard that the alleged offence was committed on diverse dates up to October 4, 2026.
Magistrate Maiyo granted Juma a bond of KSh100,000 or an alternative cash bail of KSh50,000. Omondi and Obudho were each released on a bond of KSh300,000.
The prosecution had opposed their release, seeking to have the accused persons detained as investigations continued. However, the court considered individual circumstances when making its decision.
In Juma’s case, the magistrate cited her advanced age and reported ill health in determining that she should not remain in custody. The court also took into account that Obudho’s wife had recently given birth.
The three accused persons were directed to cooperate with investigators and attend all court proceedings. They must also provide their contact details to the investigating officer and make themselves available whenever required.
The magistrate further warned them against interfering with the victims or witnesses as the case proceeds.
The case will be mentioned on October 26, 2026, when the court is expected to receive an update on its progress.
The four children reportedly sustained severe burns during the alleged ritual at the church. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain subject to investigation and court proceedings.
The release of the three church leaders on bond does not amount to an acquittal. They remain accused persons, and the charges against them are yet to be determined by the court.
