Three Church Leaders Released on Bond After Four Minors Burned in Alleged Exorcism Ritual in Bondo

Three church leaders linked to an incident in which four minors suffered burns during an alleged exorcism ritual in Bondo, Siaya County, have been freed on bond after pleading not guilty.

Gaudensia Juma, Steven Omondi and Clinton Obudho appeared before Magistrate Christabel Maiyo at the Bondo Law Courts. The charges stem from events at St. Abraham Israel Assemblies of God Church, where the four children reportedly sustained burns during a religious exercise that was allegedly meant to drive out demons.

In her bail ruling, Magistrate Maiyo granted Gaudensia Juma a personal bond of Sh100,000 or an alternative cash bail of Sh50,000. Steven Omondi and Clinton Obudho were each released on a personal bond of Sh300,000.

The court imposed strict conditions to protect the integrity of the case as it proceeds. The three accused persons were ordered not to interfere with prosecution witnesses or the parents of the affected children. Magistrate Maiyo warned that any breach of these conditions could result in the cancellation of their bonds.

The incident at the Bondo church prompted police investigations that led to the arrest and prosecution of the three church leaders. The court will examine the circumstances under which the children were injured and the alleged involvement of the accused persons.

The matter is scheduled for mention on October 26, 2026, when the court is expected to issue further directions. The three church leaders remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.