A church in Kapkwen, Bomet County, has been shut down after reports emerged that members were allegedly caned to exorcise evil spirits. 

This was after two women, who are members of the church fled from the church’s altar, when they failed to endure the mob beatings administered by their pastor.

The two victims reported the incident at Kapkwen Police Station, prompting swift action by police officers.

The incident was confirmed by Bomet County Police Commander Edward Imbwaga, who said the church was closed on Friday as investigations continue.

“The search for the suspects continues, even as we find out whether the church is legally registered and for how long it has been operational,” Imbwaga said.

He added that majority of the church members are women. 

Meanwhile, the two women who escaped from the church were taken to a hospital in Bomet, where doctors confirmed they had sustained bruises from the ordeal.

At the same time, the County Chief Officer for Health, Felix Langat noted that the two women were admitted to hospital with serious injuries all over their bodies.

“The two had bruises on their legs and cheeks, proof that they had gone through a lot, but they have received medical attention before being referred back to the police to fill out a P3 form for assault documentation,” Langat said.

Residents have called on the police to crack down on questionable religious activities in the area as police urged more victims of such incidents to report immediately.