Mob Burns Car in Homa Bay Only to Discover Pastor With Lover in Bush

Tension gripped Kowido village in Rachuonyo East after residents torched a vehicle parked in a thicket, believing it belonged to livestock thieves—only to later discover it belonged to a local pastor caught in a compromising position with his secret lover.

According to locals, the vehicle had been idling for hours in the bush, raising suspicion in an area already plagued by recent cattle theft. Fearing the worst, residents quickly mobilised and set the car ablaze, convinced rustlers were lying in wait.

But moments later, the crowd was stunned when the supposed thieves turned out to be none other than a well-known preacher and a woman from the community. The two had allegedly sneaked into the area for a private affair, using the bush as cover to avoid public attention.

Security officers arrived after the damage was done. “It’s unfortunate,” said one officer. “This is a clear reminder not to jump to conclusions without facts.” The preacher, who appeared shaken and embarrassed, was escorted away unharmed.

The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon and has since triggered sharp reactions from local leaders. Some condemned the destruction of property, while others raised concerns about the preacher’s moral standing. No arrests have been made yet, but police say investigations are underway to determine if those involved in burning the car will face charges.

As villagers grapple with the fallout, questions continue to swirl. Was it a justified act of vigilantism—or a humiliating misunderstanding fuelled by suspicion and secrecy? The truth may take time to settle, but for now, the scars left behind—both emotional and physical—remain raw.