Kenya has exhumed nine bodies from fresh graves in a suspected link to a notorious starvation cult. The bodies were found in the Shakahola Forest, near the coastal town of Malindi, where over 400 mass graves were discovered last year.
The exhumations were ordered after children went missing, triggering a new investigation. Prosecutors have arrested 11 people, including three who followed self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie, accused of encouraging followers to starve themselves to death.
Government pathologist Richard Njoroge said the search is ongoing and more bodies may be found. The discovery confirms earlier fears that the cult might still be active. In April, Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen stated that allegations showed Mackenzie was communicating with his followers from jail using a mobile phone.
Mackenzie pleaded not guilty to manslaughter after being arrested last year. A court adjourned his case citing new evidence. Five bodies were found in one village and four more in another, sparking concerns about foul play.
Human rights activist Hussein Khalid witnessed the exhumations and reported finding recently buried bodies with decomposing remains. He noted that only children’s and women’s underwear remained at one of the gravesites, suggesting possible foul play involving women and children. The situation raises fears about the cult’s alleged activities.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdrkpjk0346o