Inspector General of Police in Kenya, Japhet Koome, has revealed that the Shakahola body exhumation now stands at 58 casualties. On Monday, Koome visited the site and gave out a report on the continuing exhumation and investigation of the Malindi religious cult leader, Paul Mackenzie Nthenge, and his associates.
In his statement, the bodies were exhumed from multiple shallow graves in the 800 acres piece of land in Shakahola forest, Malindi in Kilifi County. Koome added that 29 persons were rescued alive.
Koome also revealed that Mackenzie’s criminal record is dated back in 2017 the recent one being in 2023. The cult leader reportedly ordered two minors to fast and starve to death in order to meet their maker.
“According to our criminal records, Mackenzie has a record dating back to 2017. The most recent report was made on March 17, 2023. In the report, he was linked to the death of 2 children. It is alleged that the children starved under his instructions. He told them too fast to the point of death to meet their maker,” the IG said.
He further stated that the National Police rebukes any religious extrimism and beliefs that goes against the human rights. Koome added that anyone who engages in such actions breaks the law.
“The National Police Service condemns religious organisations that promote extremist beliefs and operates outside the confines of the law, risking Kenyans’ lives and violating the basic human right to life,” Koome stated.
The IG promised to take tough actions against the culprits adding that they will face the law. He further disclosed that 14 people associated with the religious cult are currently in police custody as the investigation and rescue mission continues.
Mackenzie who is the founder of the Good News International Church allegedly instructed his followers to fast and starve to death and meet their “maker”. His followers were reportedly living in secluded areas within the Shakahola forest.