Nine bodies have recently been uncovered in fresh graves believed to be connected to one of Kenya's deadliest starvation cults. This shocking update comes from the Shakahola Forest region, previously marked by a mass death incident that shocked the nation in 2023 when over 400 bodies were identified in the area. Most of these deceased are thought to be disciples of self-identified pastor Paul Mackenzie, who reportedly urged followers to forgo food in a misguided quest for spiritual enlightenment.
The exhumations were initiated following the alarming disappearance of several children, inciting a renewed investigation. Authorities have since apprehended eleven suspects related to the cult, with three individuals previously aligned with Mackenzie during the so-called "Shakahola Forest Massacre." Current evidence indicates that the cult could still be functioning, as officials have voiced concerns that Mackenzie maintained contact with followers via mobile phones while imprisoned.
Mackenzie has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter charges, insisting he only provided spiritual guidance. Allegedly, he stated that refraining from eating would expedite their journey to heaven. A Mombasa court recently paused proceedings in Mackenzie’s case, attributing the delay to the emergence of new evidence.
The recent exhumations, which commenced on Thursday, revealed five bodies in Kwa Binzaro village on that day and an additional four the following day. Government pathologist Richard Njoroge has indicated that the extensive search of the area has not yet concluded, raising expectations of discovering more bodies amid ongoing investigations.
Njoroge also urged public assistance, encouraging anyone caring for missing loved ones to report to the Malindi District Hospital for DNA sampling. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions from July noted suspicions that certain victims had succumbed to starvation and suffocation, a tragic outcome linked to extreme religious ideologies promoted by the cult.
Human rights activist Hussein Khalid witnessed some of the exhumations and shared chilling observations, indicating foul play with signs suggesting recent tampering at some grave sites. Pieces of clothing were discovered, hinting the deceased might include vulnerable women and children, adding yet another layer of heartbreak to this unfolding tragedy.
As investigations progress, the community remains on edge, grappling with the horrifying implications of the tragedy that has unfolded in the heart of coastal Kenya.
