Married Father of Two Poses As Catholic Priest

A married father of two has been exposed for allegedly posing as an ordained Catholic priest and celebrating Mass in several parishes within Kenya’s Turkana County.

The suspect, identified as Jones Bogonko Onchonga, reportedly gained access to the Catholic Diocese of Lodwar after allegedly using forged Church credentials to present himself as a priest.

According to reports by a Kenyan Daily, Tuko, Onchonga participated in religious activities and allegedly administered sacraments at several Catholic worship centres, including St. Augustine Cathedral in Kalokol, St. Thomas Chapel and St. Mary’s Lodaraja.

His alleged impersonation came to wider public attention after photographs emerged showing him celebrating Mass alongside the Bishop of Lodwar, Rt. Rev. John Mbinda, C.S.Sp.

The development reportedly raised concerns within the Catholic community after the suspect’s true identity was discovered.

Following his exposure, the Diocese of Lodwar issued a statement signed by Bishop Mbinda, distancing the Church from Onchonga and clarifying that he has no priestly authority or official status within the Catholic Church.

The Diocese also warned members of the public and parishioners against engaging him to perform any religious or priestly duties.

Police authorities have reportedly commenced an investigation into the case to establish how Onchonga allegedly obtained the falsified ecclesiastical documents, gained access to Church activities and performed religious rites without detection.