New bodies have been unearthed near the site of a notorious starvation cult in Kenya, fueling concerns that the group may still be active. Detectives have exhumed nine bodies from recently dug graves, indicating a worrying continuation of the mass fatalities associated with the cult led by self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie.
In one of the deadliest cult-related incidents in history, over 400 bodies were discovered earlier this year in the remote Shakahola Forest near Malindi. Mackenzie allegedly encouraged his followers to fast to death, with the belief it would expedite their journey to heaven. These new exhumations were initiated in July following the alarming disappearance of several children, prompting an extensive investigation.
Authorities have arrested 11 individuals linked to the cult, including three followers of Mackenzie during the "Shakahola Forest Massacre." The latest findings seem to substantiate government concerns initially voiced earlier in the year regarding the cult's continued existence. In April, Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen revealed there were claims that Mackenzie was still in contact with his disciples from prison using a mobile device.
Mackenzie, arrested in 2023 and pleading not guilty to manslaughter charges, allegedly told his followers that starvation would lead to a quicker passage to the afterlife. Reportedly, a Mombasa court recently deferred his ongoing hearing due to the emergence of new evidence.
The search area remains extensive, with pathologist Richard Njoroge indicating expectations of finding additional bodies. As the investigation proceeds, the public is urged to report any missing persons to Malindi District Hospital, where DNA samples can be collected.
Human rights activist Hussein Khalid, who observed the exhumations, noted that one body appeared to have been buried recently while others were in an advanced state of decomposition. Khalid claimed that the discovery of torn underwear at one grave suggested possible foul play, hinting that those buried may have included women and children.
Local authorities are committed to unraveling the full extent of this chilling case, and further exhumations are scheduled to continue on Monday, as the community grapples with the devastation wrought by the horrors of this cult's ideologies.
