Married father of two exposed for allegedly posing as Catholic priest
A married father of two, identified as Jones Bogonko Onchonga, has been accused of impersonating a Catholic priest in Kenya. Reports indicate that Onchonga conducted religious services across multiple parishes in Turkana County.
According to the Kenyan news outlet Tuko, Onchonga allegedly gained entry to the Catholic Diocese of Lodwar by presenting forged documents that claimed he was an ordained priest. He reportedly celebrated Mass and participated in various religious activities at several Catholic venues, including St. Augustine Cathedral in Kalokol, St. Thomas Chapel, and St. Mary’s Lodaraja.
The alleged impersonation came to light when photographs emerged showing Onchonga celebrating Mass alongside the Bishop of Lodwar, Rt. Rev. John Mbinda, C.S.Sp. This revelation raised alarm within the Catholic community, prompting the Diocese of Lodwar to issue a clarification regarding Onchonga’s credentials.
In a statement, Bishop Mbinda emphasized that the Diocese has disassociated itself from Onchonga, declaring that he holds no official position or priestly authority within the Catholic Church. The bishop also cautioned parishioners and the public against allowing Onchonga to perform any priestly or religious duties.
In connection with these offenses, Onchonga has been charged with identity theft under Article 382 of Kenya’s Penal Code, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to three years. He pleaded guilty to the charges during a court appearance before Chief Magistrate Evanson Ngigi on August 14.
