88 Children Removed from Iowa Church Camp Following Abuse Allegations

Authorities in Iowa have removed 88 children from a church-affiliated summer camp after receiving reports of abuse and endangerment. The operation, led by the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with state agencies, took place last Thursday and Friday.

According to officials, the children were attending programs hosted by the Kingdom Ministry of Rehab and Recreation and the Shekinah Glory Camp in Columbus Junction. The children were relocated to a nearby church where they met with child protection workers. From there, they were either released to their parents, transferred to Iowa Department of Health and Human Services custody, or placed in temporary foster care.

The removal stemmed from “information and reports regarding child abuse and endangerment,” according to the sheriff’s office. Authorities have not yet confirmed specific charges, and no arrests have been made.

Victor Bawi, whose parents run the ministry, defended the organization and denied all allegations of abuse. He claimed the incident originated from a 15-year-old camper from Texas who reportedly contacted authorities because he did not want to remain at the camp.

“We never harmed that child,” Bawi said, adding, “We loved him. We bought him like $400 shoes, clothing, everything.”

Bawi insisted the children were happy at the camp and claimed many cried when authorities arrived to take them away. “You can ask the children as well, they were having fun,” he stated.

He also emphasized that this was the ministry’s first time hosting a Bible study summer camp, scheduled to run from June 8 to June 29, with parents reportedly signing consent forms before dropping off their children.

The ministry, according to Bawi, is focused on helping both children and adults struggling with substance abuse, including drugs, alcohol, and nicotine. He stated that the camp ensured separation between children and adults, as well as between boys and girls.

“We care for them, we provide for them. This summer camp was for people around the state so they can change and stop their addiction,” he said.

Bawi expressed hope that the children would be able to return once the investigation is resolved. “We talked to the children and their parents. They want to come back. They want to send their children back.”

The investigation is ongoing.