Families in Kenya mourn as the bodies of victims from a starvation cult are released at a hospital mortuary
Relatives receive the remains of their loved ones who fell victim to a tragic cult-induced starvation.
Since April 2023, over 400 followers of the Good News International Church were discovered buried in the Shakahola forest, marking one of the worst cult-related tragedies in recent decades.
The cult leader, Paul Mackenzie, surrendered to the police last April and faces m3rder charges along with 29 others.
They are accused of convincing their followers that the world was ending and encouraging them to starve themselves to be first in line for heaven.
While Mackenzie and his associates have pleaded not guilty, the repercussions of their actions continue to devastate families.
Despite ongoing identification efforts, only 35 bodies have been positively identified, leaving numerous families in agony as they await closure. The first batch of bodies was released on Tuesday, bringing immense sorrow as relatives waited in line, many breaking down in tears.
Transporting the remains added to the families’ burdens, with some unable to afford appropriate means. The slow process of body handover, attributed to meticulous procedures including exhumation and DNA testing, has sparked calls for acceleration from officials and human rights advocates alike.
As the nation grapples with this profound tragedy, there’s a collective plea for expedited efforts to bring closure to grieving families, recognizing the urgency of providing solace amidst immense loss.
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