A married father of two, Jones Bogonko Onchonga, has been arrested in Kenya after allegedly posing as a Catholic priest and conducting Masses and administering Sacraments in several churches in Turkana County.
The Catholic Diocese of Lodwar later disowned him, saying he was not a Catholic priest and that the documents he presented as proof of his ordination were allegedly fake.
He reportedly carried out religious activity at St. Augustine Cathedral, St. Thomas Parish and St Mary’s Shrine.
His alleged impersonation came to light after photographs surfaced showing him celebrating Mass alongside the Bishop of Lodwar, Rt. Rev. John Mbinda, C.S.Sp.
The discovery reportedly prompted concern among members of the Catholic community, leading the Diocese of Lodwar to clarify his status.
In a statement signed by Bishop Mbinda, the Diocese distanced itself from Onchonga and stated that he has no priestly authority or official position within the Catholic Church.
The Diocese also warned you perishioners and members of the public against allowing him to perform priestly or other religious duties.
Onchonga has been charged with personation. He initially pleaded guilty but later changed his plead to not guilty.
He remains in custody after failing to meet bail conditions, and may be charged with identity theft under Article 382 of Kenya’s Penal Code, an offence that carries a possible prison term of up to three years upon conviction.
-9News Nigeria.
