Two church leaders in Tanzania have been arrested by authorities for allegedly unlawfully detaining over 100 sick individuals, whom they promised to heal through prayer and traditional remedies.

The individuals were held in traditional wards, mud-walled huts with brick beds, located around the church in Nyamhinza village, Misungwi district, in the northwestern region of Mwanza.

During their detention, the individuals received no medical treatment or food and were required to find sustenance for themselves until they recovered.

Some had been confined for as long as a month. Local residents raised concerns and informed the police after several individuals who had left hospitals, including a woman who recently gave birth to twins and joined the church, died.

In response, the police intervened, returning the sick individuals to hospitals for proper medical care.

The authorities are now investigating potential deaths and the possibility of hidden bodies nearby. Mwanza regional police commander, Wilbroad Mutafungwa, stated that initial investigations did not uncover any evidence of buried bodies but maintained vigilance on the matter.

The arrested suspects, church leaders William Masum and Kabula Lushika (his wife), were found to be operating without the necessary permits for conducting worship, prayer activities, and traditional healing services.

As of now, the accused individuals have not provided any statements regarding the allegations.

"We are now doing a detailed investigation, including interrogating the suspects. Meanwhile I ask locals with classified information that will help the investigation to come forward and talk to the police,'' he said.

The church is said to have been in operation for more than five years.