Court detains 11 suspects in Malindi over suspected Shakahola forest cult activities
The arrests follow renewed fears of a revival of the Paul Mackenzie-led Shakahola cult, whose mass graves, uncovered in 2023, shocked the nation and drew global attention.
Eleven individuals arrested near the infamous Shakahola forest in Kwa Binzaro village, Malindi, Kilifi County, have been arraigned as authorities intensify investigations into a suspected resurgence of cult activities.
The suspects, including a minor, appeared before Principal Magistrate Joy Wesonga at the Malindi Law Courts on Monday. No formal charges were filed, as the prosecution requested 30 more days to complete investigations.
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Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) asked the court for extended detention to investigate claims that the group entered the forest with children and may be linked to serious offences, including terrorism.
Magistrate Wesonga granted the request, directing that the adults remain in custody at Malindi Police Station and the minor be held at the Malindi Children’s Home. The case will be mentioned on August 22, 2025.
The arrests follow renewed fears of a revival of the Paul Mackenzie-led Shakahola cult, whose mass graves, uncovered in 2023, shocked the nation and drew global attention.
Authorities recently discovered one body and rescued four severely malnourished individuals from the Kwa Binzaro forest.
Former Mackenzie followers
Among those arrested is a couple believed to be former Mackenzie followers.
Originally from Nyadorera in Siaya County, the two reportedly vanished from their home in March with their six children, aged between one and 15.
Investigators suspect they may have reconnected with underground networks tied to the banned cult.
Human rights activists have raised alarm over the latest developments, warning that remnants of the indoctrination movement may be regrouping despite ongoing crackdowns.
“We have received worrying reports that some individuals previously incarcerated at Shimo la Tewa have resumed radical teachings aimed at luring vulnerable people,” said Haki Africa’s activist, Shipeta.
The Shakahola tragedy, led by self-proclaimed preacher Paul Mackenzie, resulted in the deaths of over 400 people and triggered nationwide outrage, with growing calls for stricter oversight of religious groups and cult-like movements.
As investigations progress, authorities remain on high alert amid mounting fears of renewed extremist indoctrination in the region.
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