As Jamaicans continue to react to the revelation of what is believed to be a religious cult in Montego Bay, St. James. On the night of Sunday, October 17, a police-military team descended on the premises. Two congregants of the Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in Albion, St. James were fatally stabbed in an alleged cult-like sacrificial ritual, and another member was shot dead during an altercation with the police. Three people were injured in the process and are receiving medical attention.
A religious tragedy, that is how the Jamaica Council of Churches, (JCC) has described the loss of life and injury connected, to the Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries. In a release the Council denounced and condemned all forms of religious practices which exploit and endanger persons, exposing them to harm or distress.
When CVM Live arrived on the scene Tuesday, October 19, members of the Independent Commission of Investigations, (INDECOM) were seen combing through the area.
National Security Minister, Dr. Horace Chang, notes prior to the incident, police intervention would have been limited, given the current legislation.
All 15 children who were present have been placed in state care, while nine males including the leader, Dr. Kevin O. Smith, remains in police custody. All the women are out on bail following minor charges under the Disaster Risk Management Act, (DRMA).
A female member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, ( JCF) who was at the service remains in custody as investigations continue to determine any further charges are to be laid.
More in this CVM live story from Robian Williams:
