Daijiworld Media Network – Iowa
Iowa, Jun 17: Authorities in Iowa have taken 88 children into protective custody following reports of child abuse and endangerment at a religious summer camp in southeastern Iowa, the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Monday.
The operation, involving multiple law enforcement and child welfare agencies, was carried out over two days at the Shekinah Glory Camp, a Bible camp managed by the Kingdom Ministry of Rehabilitation and Recreation, which claims to help individuals, including children, struggling with addiction.
The children were relocated to a nearby Methodist church, where they were processed by child protection workers and placed in temporary foster care. Efforts are also being made to reunite the children with their families.
While details remain scarce, officials have not disclosed the exact nature of the alleged abuse, the ages of the children, or whether any arrests were made. Sheriff Brandon Marquardt has not issued a detailed comment but confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
The camp, hosted on a property in Columbus Junction, was part of a scheduled summer program running from June 8 to 29, as per the ministry's website. The site claims to provide shelter and spiritual guidance through fasting, prayer, and Bible study, and currently houses over 60 individuals in five rented mobile homes.
Victor Bawi, whose family operates the camp, denied all allegations. “We’re innocent. They’re not going to find anything,” he told local media outlet WQAD-TV. He added that the camp offers a mix of spiritual lessons and recreational activities such as volleyball and soccer.
“We hope the children are doing well and they can come back,” he said, claiming both children and their parents want to return to the camp.
Founded in 2018, the Kingdom Ministry has stated plans to expand, including building a church and housing for up to 100 people by 2025.
As investigations continue, officials have urged patience while the facts are established and the welfare of the children remains the top priority.