A Limbe-based pastor, Mbah Michael, founder of Christ Accomplishment Ministry International, has been arrested in connection with the death of a 13-year-old girl, Julie Che.
The Form 3 student at GHS Limbe reportedly died on Tuesday, September 29, after being rushed to Limbe Regional Hospital.
Pastor Mbah and his wife, Yvette Che, are accused of beating Julie over an alleged theft of FCFA 1,500.
The pastor’s wife, she discovered the money missing on the night of Friday into Saturday and beat the girl with a gas pipe to force a confession. She claims the girl was only beaten that night and not again.
Neighbours, however, allege the girl was beaten on Monday night into Tuesday, with her hands tied, and was heard crying for help.
The pastor was arrested on Tuesday evening after neighbours alerted the Limbe Gendarmerie Brigade. The Brigade Commander, Master Warrant Officer Ankiambom Anthony, confirmed the arrest, saying investigations are ongoing.
The girl’s body was taken to the Tiko Mortuary. The pastor and his wife allegedly failed to notify neighbours or local authorities of the death.
The pastor’s wife claims Julie fell into a gutter and collapsed, and that she was ill. Neighbours dispute this, saying they heard cries from the church compound. The pastor remains in detention as investigations continue.
