Carolyne Odour is searching for her two sons, Daniel, aged 12, and Elijah, aged nine, who have been missing since June 28. They disappeared along with their father, who was reportedly a follower of a controversial cult leader with teachings linked to mass deaths in Shakahola Forest, Kenya. Odour has confirmed her husband’s death at a mortuary in Malindi, where his body was found on July 19.
The body of Samuel Owino Owoyo was discovered during a police operation prompted by reports of strange disappearances in Kwa Binzaro, a village near the Shakahola Forest, which has seen over 400 fatalities in connection with cult activities in 2023. DNA tests are currently being conducted on more than 30 additional recently unearthed bodies to determine their identities.
Ms. Odour expressed her distress over the poorly decomposed condition of her husband’s remains and revealed that he had become interested in the teachings of self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie about four to five years ago. She noted significant changes in his behavior, including a disinterest in formal education for their children.
On the day of their disappearance, Owoyo informed Odour he was taking the boys to visit his parents’ village. However, she later discovered they had traveled much farther. When she lost contact with him, she reported their absence to the police and sought help through various channels.
In the ongoing investigation, 11 individuals have been arrested, including followers of Mackenzie, who is facing manslaughter charges. Authorities are now advocating for stricter legislation to manage religious organizations in hopes of preventing such tragedies in the future.
The exhumation of suspected victims has been paused as forensic experts prepare to analyze the remains. Locals are expressing concern about restrictions on accessing the forest, a resource for firewood and other necessities. Meanwhile, Ms. Odour continues to endure an agonizing wait for news about her sons, expressing a deep longing as she reflects on what they might have achieved in school this year.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgqnx7n8v0do?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss