Drama and tension erupted in Kisii County after a homeowner demolished a kitchen that had become a shrine for thousands of faithful who believed an image of the ‘Virgin Mary’ had appeared on its wall.

• The homeowner, Charles Onsombi, angered by the invasion of his compound, used a jembe to destroy the mud-walled kitchen on Sunday night.
• The alleged apparition had attracted pilgrims, including boda boda riders and preachers, turning the quiet village into a busy thoroughfare.
• The Catholic Church, through Father Edward Nyakundi, has dismissed the claims, stating the Church has a lengthy process for verifying such apparitions.