The residents told the Standard that the said parcel of land was set aside for the prosperity of the community as opposed to benefitting a single church.
While calling on concerned state agencies and the DCI to intervene in resolving the thorny issue, the residents said it is unfortunate that the church which should be a symbol of peace and unity had resorted to using goons and politicians to intimidate them.
On the other hand, the church leadership through pastor Joshua Kabila refuted the claims saying the church acquired the entire parcel through a legal process.
Mlolongo deputy DCI Nyange Mwamburi said the dispute has been reported at the Mlolongo police station and investigations are underway.