There is confirmation today that the Jezreel Lion of Judah group is not registered as a religious body under the Religious Bodies Act in the country.

Police Chief of Intelligence and Investigations, ACP Henry Brown said their findings indicate that the group has no registration as a religious body.

However they have some registered companies.

Police are currently focusing on the criminal offences committed by Jezreel Lion of Judah pastor, Jone Cokanauto.

Cokanauto has now been charged with one count of rape.

This is in relation to a case involving a follower of the group in Taveuni.

Cokanauto is also charged with indecent assault.

This is for a case in Nasinu.

Fijivillage has received information that the group started about 15 years ago.

ACP Henry Brown

A number of young women joined the group as prayer warriors.

Many of these girls left their homes and did not finish their education as they were allegedly promised a better future if they became part of the group.

Some of the girls dropped out of university to join the group.

ACP Henry Brown said they are trying to gather evidence in relation to a number of cases.

ACP Brown confirmed that some of the alleged victims have started coming forward with information.

We have been informed that the alleged victims are staying in different parts of the country.

Please contact police on 3315599 if you have any information that could assist in investigations.

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