Prison officer summoned over alleged torture of Mackenzie's wife, other female suspects

A Mombasa court has directed the officer in charge of Shimo la Tewa Women’s Prison to appear before it to address allegations of maltreatment of female suspects.

The suspects, including Rhoda Mumbua Maweu, the wife of controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie, claimed they endured physical beatings, were denied food, and were forced to sleep on the floor.

The presiding magistrate highlighted the seriousness of these allegations and deemed it necessary for the prison officer to provide a comprehensive report on the claims.

The officer will appear before the court on September 11, 2024.

Additionally, the officer was directed to investigate the allegations thoroughly and submit detailed findings.

Paul Mackenzie (centre) arraigned as the prime suspect in the Shakahola massacre at the Mombasa Law Courts on February 20, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

In related developments, the court dropped charges against two deceased suspects in the Shakahola massacre case.

Chief Magistrate Alex Ithuku dismissed the cases following the submission of burial permits and postmortem reports by the prosecution. According to the official death reports, both suspects died of illness.

Mary Charo Mbita passed away in late June 2024 at the Coast General Referral Teaching Hospital, while the second suspect, Edison Safari Munyambo, also known as Baba Sifa, died on August 19, 2024, at the Shimo la Tewa Health Facility.

The bodies were released to their respective families for burial after autopsies were conducted.

Meanwhile, Magistrate Ithuku further emphasised to the media the importance of fair and accurate reporting on the case, given its public interest.

The court also granted permission for victims represented by Haki Africa to participate in the proceedings through a counsel.