A married man with two children has been arrested in Kenya after allegedly posing as a Catholic priest, celebrating Mass and carrying out priestly duties across several parishes in Turkana County before his deception was uncovered.
The suspect, identified as Jones Bogonko Onchonga, allegedly gained access to the Catholic Diocese of Lodwar by presenting forged church documents claiming he was an ordained priest.
Authorities said he conducted religious activities at several worship centres, including St Augustine Cathedral in Kalokol, St Thomas Chapel and St Mary’s Lodaraja.
His alleged impersonation came to light after photographs emerged showing him celebrating Mass alongside the Bishop of Lodwar, Rt. Rev. John Mbinda, C.S.Sp.
Following the discovery, the Diocese issued a statement distancing itself from Onchonga, declaring that he is neither a Catholic priest nor a recognised official of the Church.
The Diocese also warned parishioners not to allow him to perform priestly duties or administer any religious rites.
Onchonga has been charged with identity theft under Article 382 of Kenya’s Penal Code, an offence that carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison if he is convicted.
Court documents allege that he falsely presented himself as an authorised Catholic priest between July 31 and August 12 in Turkana Central Sub-County.
He initially pleaded guilty when he first appeared in court on August 14 but later changed his plea to not guilty on August 17.
The suspect remains in custody after failing to meet his bail conditions, which require either a KSh100,000 bond with a surety or a KSh50,000 cash bail.
