Nine bodies have been exhumed from recent graves suspected to be associated with a cult in Kenya. More than 400 bodies were previously discovered in 2023 in the Shakahola Forest, located near the coastal town of Malindi. Many believed these individuals were followers of Paul Mackenzie, a self-proclaimed pastor who is alleged to have urged his followers to starve themselves.
The exhumations were initiated in July following the disappearance of several children, which prompted a renewed investigation. Prosecutors reported the arrest of 11 individuals linked to the case, including three who were followers of Mackenzie during the events termed the “Shakahola Forest Massacre.” Recent findings seem to affirm suspicions from earlier in the year that the cult may still be operational.
In April, Kenya’s Interior Minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, indicated that Mackenzie might still be in communication with his followers from jail via a mobile phone. Mackenzie has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter charges and had reportedly told his followers that fasting would accelerate their path to heaven. A Mombasa court recently delayed his trial due to new evidence.
As of last Thursday, five bodies were uncovered near the Shakahola Forest in Kwa Binzaro village, with an additional four found the following day. Government pathologist Richard Njoroge noted the vastness of the search area, indicating that more bodies could still be discovered. Families who have lost loved ones or suspect their absence are encouraged to visit the Malindi District Hospital, where details and DNA samples may be collected.
Further exhumations are scheduled to take place on Monday. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Kenya has stated that the deceased might have been victims of extreme religious ideologies, potentially leading to starvation and suffocation. Activist Hussein Khalid, who observed the exhumations, remarked on the disturbing conditions at the gravesites, suggesting there may have been foul play involved.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdrkpjk0346o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss