Iowa Bible Camp Raid: 88 Children Removed Amid Human Trafficking Investigation

Iowa Bible Camp Raid: 88 Children Removed Amid Human Trafficking Investigation

Authorities in Iowa have removed 88 children from Shekinah Glory Camp in Columbus Junction as part of an ongoing human trafficking investigation.

Investigation Details

The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and other agencies, executed search warrants at the camp. This action followed a report from a teenager who was attending the camp and was unhappy.

Children's Welfare

The children, who came from across the United States, were taken to Wapello Methodist Church and placed in temporary foster care. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services stated they will remain in state custody until a safe return to their families can be arranged.

Camp's Response

Victor Bawi, representing the Kingdom Ministry of Rehabilitation and Recreation that operates the camp, denies any allegations of wrongdoing. He asserts that the ministry's goal is to assist individuals, including both adults and children, struggling with addiction. Bawi emphasized that the reporting teen was well-cared for, and the camp offered both religious instruction and recreational activities.

Further Investigation

In addition to the camp, authorities also searched another location in Fredonia linked to the ministry. The ministry is led by pastors of Burmese origin (Myanmar), from the Chin ethnic group.