11 arrested over suspected new cult in Shakahola Forest
11 arrested over suspected new cult in Shakahola Forest
Eleven suspects, including a minor, were arraigned on Tuesday, July 22, at the Malindi Law Courts in connection with suspected cult activities near Shakahola Forest.
The arrests were made by detectives at Kwa Binzaro village in Malindi sub-county, Kilifi County, raising fresh fears of a resurgence of cult activity in the region, just over a year after the Shakahola massacre incident.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers presented the suspects before Malindi Principal Magistrate Joy Wesonga but did not press formal charges.
Subsequently, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) requested 30 more days to complete investigations, a request currently under review by the court.
Authorities say the group was discovered in a forested area in a setting disturbingly reminiscent of the Shakahola tragedy linked to controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie.
During the operation, one body was recovered, and four severely emaciated individuals were rescued. Among those arrested were a man and his wife, reportedly former followers of the Shakahola cult.
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Police are treating the incident with caution as they investigate whether the arrested individuals were forming or participating in a splinter cult inspired by Mackenzie’s teachings.
The Shakahola Forest incident, which came to light in early 2023, involved the deaths of over 400 people who were allegedly coerced into prolonged fasting to meet Jesus.
The movement was spearheaded by Pastor Paul Mackenzie of Good News International Church, whose followers were found buried in shallow graves within the remote Shakahola Forest in Kilifi County.
The gruesome discovery led to a national and international outcry, a commission of inquiry, and calls for tighter regulation of religious movements in Kenya.
Mackenzie and several of his associates were arrested and jailed.
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