In Iowa, authorities removed 88 children from a religious camp after a teenager reached out asking for help. As a result, the Shekinah Glory Camp in Columbus Junction became the focus of a serious investigation. Due to reports of abuse and unsafe conditions, officials responded quickly.
The Kingdom Ministry of Rehabilitation and Recreation runs the camp, which had recently started its session. Consequently, law enforcement and child protection workers arrived with search warrants. They immediately removed every child from the grounds.
Afterward, the workers brought the children to a nearby Methodist church. There, child welfare staff interviewed them carefully. Some children reunited with their families, while others entered temporary foster care.
The situation began when a 15-year-old from Texas made an urgent call. Therefore, this incident made headlines, as children pleaded for help inside the camp. Later, a state representative confirmed that all the children had reunited with their families. Meanwhile, investigators continue gathering evidence. However, so far, they have not made any arrests.
Victor Bawi, whose father ministers at the camp, publicly denied all accusations. He explained that the teen received good treatment. In fact, the camp even bought him expensive shoes and clothing. “We never hurt him,” Bawi said. “We loved him.” Furthermore, he added that neither he nor his father had spoken with police.
He described the whole situation as a misunderstanding. “We’re innocent,” he said. “Children pleaded for help, but we did nothing wrong.” Bawi also said many children cried during removal. For example, one girl needed oxygen after struggling to breathe. He believes fear caused their distress, not abuse.
The Shekinah Glory Camp focuses on Christian recovery. Specifically, the camp helps people break addiction through fasting, prayer, and Scripture. Additionally, it provides food and shelter to those in need.
Although camp leaders deny wrongdoing, the fact that children pleaded for help remains central to the investigation. Therefore, officials continue interviewing families and collecting facts. Overall, the case remains active, with more information expected in the coming days.
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