Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Vihiga and Kakamega counties have launched an urgent investigation into the alleged abduction of PAG General Presiding Superintendent.
Bishop Patrick Lihanda went missing under mysterious circumstances.
The bishop was last seen leaving the Nyang’ori PAG headquarters around 4 p.m. on his way to a meeting in Mbale town, Vihiga County.
Shortly after his departure, Bishop Lihanda sent a chilling SMS to his driver, stating that his life was in danger.
When the driver attempted to reach him, he found that the bishop’s phone had been switched off, raising immediate concerns for his safety.
Alarmed, the driver promptly reported the situation to the Mbale Police Station, which set off a rapid response from DCI officers.
Detectives tracked the bishop’s phone to Mayoni, prompting further investigation.
On Sunday morning, Mumias Sub-county police commander Stephen Muoni confirmed that Bishop Lihanda’s vehicle, a white Mercedes Benz, had been discovered abandoned at Shibale Trading Centre in Mumias, Kakamega County.
The vehicle’s headlights were still illuminated, but there were no occupants inside.
Officers discovered only the bishop’s Bible, spectacles, and diary, heightening concerns about his whereabouts.
This unsettling incident occurs just days before the highly anticipated and contentious PAG church elections scheduled for October 1, 2024, at the Nyang’ori church headquarters.
The church has been mired in a leadership dispute between rival factions for the past five years, leading to numerous court cases and increasing tension within the community.
The ongoing power struggle has raised questions about whether the upcoming elections will proceed as planned, with the potential for further conflict looming on the horizon.
