Three people killed at a church in Vihiga County.

The church has been embroiled in leadership wrangles for long since the death of its founder Mr. Daudi Kivuri in the 1950s.

Before his passing, Mr. Kivuri relinquished his leadership roles to one his sons, John Mweresa.

According to Obed Simiyu, Daily nation correspondent in Vihiga, the wrangles at the church are said to have begun when Kivuri’s widow fell off with his son’s leadership style provoking a battle over the church affairs.

Clashes broke out Sunday morning in the church as rival groups fought over leadership and control of the congregation. A house and car belonging to one of the church leaders were set on fire before the service could start.

It is alleged that Mr. Mweresa had hired a group of hooligans who were strategically placed in the church. Another group of the gang are said to have been hiding in the house which was set on fire.

However, the hooligan’s plans were frustrated as they were overwhelmed by the church members who killed 3 of them while scores were injured and rushed to the nearby hospitals.

Mr. Mweresa is said to have eloped after the situation got worse.

SOURCE: Daily Nation