Detectives in Kenya have uncovered nine bodies from new graves in connection with a notorious starvation cult that has shocked the nation. This comes amid increased scrutiny of the activities associated with self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie, linked to the mass deaths of more than 400 followers in 2023 within the Shakahola Forest area, located inland from Malindi.
The exhumations commenced in July after the disappearance of several children prompted authorities to act. Prosecutors have arrested 11 individuals, including three former followers of Mackenzie, as investigations continue into this tragic case. The discovery of the new bodies comes as fears mount that the cult may still be operational. In April, Kenya's Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen revealed allegations that Mackenzie might still be communicating with followers while incarcerated.
Mackenzie, arrested last year and pleading not guilty to manslaughter, allegedly preached that starvation would expedite access to heaven for his followers. Recent legal proceedings have been adjourned as new evidence has surfaced.
Government pathologist Richard Njoroge stated that five bodies were found during the initial exhumations with a further four discovered shortly after. The ongoing search spans a vast area, with Njoroge urging the public to report any missing persons to the local Malindi District Hospital.
The recent findings evoke grim speculation about the circumstances of these deaths, as human rights activist Hussein Khalid witnesses the exhumations firsthand. Upon investigation, he noted varying states of decomposition, suggesting the possibility of foul play, particularly in one grave that appeared to have been disturbed.
This chilling situation highlights the grave issue of extreme religious ideologies and their impact on vulnerable communities, as authorities prepare to further examine additional gravesites in the coming days.
