Police in Kisoga, Mukono District, have arrested four members of a little-known religious sect following the shocking death of Ashe Segawa, 26, whose body was kept at a roadside house for six days as followers prayed for his resurrection.
The incident came to light after residents of Butinindi Village alerted authorities to a strong stench emanating from the home.
According to Segawa’s brother, Abbey Kafeero, the group’s spiritual leader, known locally as Prophet Suzan Nelima, regularly visited the house to pray over the deceased and had assured the family that Segawa would rise after seven days.
She reportedly prevented the family from seeking medical care when Segawa fell critically ill, insisting on fasting and prayer instead.
“She forced all of us to fast and pray for him. He was not allowed to eat even when he was very sick,” Kafeero said.
When authorities and residents entered the home, they found Segawa’s body in an advanced state of decomposition and the house in appalling condition.
Villagers condemned the sect’s extreme practices, which allegedly include forbidding members from working and denying medical treatment, claiming “Jesus will provide.”
During a visit to the sect’s makeshift church, residents found another gravely ill man lying on the floor while others prayed around him.
Witnesses said he was too weak to speak and had been denied medical attention.
Butinindi Village Chairman Peter Kayiira denounced the group’s actions and promised swift intervention.
“We will ensure the sick man is taken to hospital and that his family is informed. What has happened here is unacceptable,” he said, also calling for stronger oversight of unregulated religious groups to prevent similar tragedies.
Bishop Michael Kyazze, lead pastor at Omega Healing Centre and president of the Coalition of Pentecostal Evangelicals, warned that desperation among vulnerable people is making them susceptible to manipulation by self-styled prophets.
He urged believers to critically evaluate the teachings of new religious figures entering their communities.
Police confirmed the arrest of Mary Nakalanzi, the deceased’s mother, along with several relatives and followers accused of hiding Segawa’s body.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are searching for Prophet Nelima, who is believed to have fled the village.