Drama unfolded at the Malenya border crossing on the outskirts of Busia town after a pastor was arrested while attempting to cross into Uganda with a live python allegedly intended for spiritual cleansing.
According to reports by local authorities, Pastor Fanish Ramsey Maloba, who ministers at a church in Matayos Trading Center, was intercepted around 6 p.m. Monday while trying to cross the Kenya-Uganda border with the snake hidden inside a large bag.
Police officers from the Mayenje station, who were on routine patrol, became suspicious and stopped the pastor. Upon inspecting his luggage, they were shocked to discover a black and brown python measuring approximately five meters in length.
Eyewitnesses recounted the confusion and fear at the scene, with officers visibly startled. “The police asked the pastor to open his bag. When they saw what was inside, they immediately dropped it and retreated. They then huddled together for an emergency meeting,” said one witness.
Upon interrogation, the 26-year-old pastor claimed that he had been spiritually led to Uganda to destroy witchcraft in a particular homestead. He stated that the snake had been captured alive under divine guidance and that he planned to bring it back to his church for high-level prayers after completing his mission in Uganda.
The pastor is currently in custody at the Busia police station as investigations continue. Authorities say he is likely to face charges related to illegal possession and transport of wildlife.
This incident comes just six months after a similar dramatic episode involving another pastor in Murende village, Matayos constituency. That case ended in tragedy when a woman died from a snakebite during what was said to be a spiritual cleansing session.
The string of such incidents has sparked public suspicion over the legitimacy of some of these spiritual “miracles,” with many locals now questioning whether some preachers are smuggling snakes in advance to create staged deliverance performances.
It is also alleged that before these pastors arrive in villages, they deploy agents who sensitize the locals about the dangers of witchcraft and collect contributions to fund the so-called cleansing missions.
Written by, Seth Ngero
