Concern over possible cult resurgence in Kilifi County
By Ronald Mwadzombo, July 22, 2025Authorities in Kilifi County have raised fresh concerns over the possible resurgence of cult-related activities after police recovered the body of a man and rescued four frail individuals in Kwa Binzaro Village, barely 26km from the infamous Shakahola forest.
County Commissioner Josphat Biwott said the four survivors were discovered in a secluded homestead within a five-acre forested area after residents alerted security officers about suspicious activities resembling cult practices.
“Two of the rescued individuals are locals, while the other are from outside the area. All four were in extremely weak condition and have since been taken to Malindi Sub-county Hospital for medical attention. The deceased was found at the same location, and his body was moved to the Malindi Sub-County Hospital morgue,” he said.
According to a local who spoke on condition of anonymity said the owner of the homestead reportedly fled the scene after learning that police were closing in.
The source further revealed disturbing details about the man’s body.
“The body was still fresh. It seems he was strangled because he was too frail to escape. They feared he might reveal information to the authorities. Those rescued refused to take the milk offered to them and declined to speak about why they were in the forest,” said the source.
The area has since been secured by police as the investigation continues.
The incident has evoked chilling memories of the Shakahola massacre, where over 436 bodies were exhumed from mass graves in 2023 and 2024.
The victims were believed to be followers of controversial televangelist Paul Makenzie of Good News International Church, who encouraged them to fast to death, hoping to meet Jesus Christ.
Makenzie and his 93 co-followers, including his wife, are facing multiple charges, including terrorism, radicalising, murder, child cruelty, among others, at the Shimo la Tewa and Mombasa Law Courts.
They are being held at Shimo la Tewa Prison in Mombasa in Connection with the death of suspected cult followers believed to have fasted to death to hasten their date with Jesus Christ.
In the latest development, locals fear that remnants of Makenzie may be resurfacing in remote areas of Kilifi.
However, Police authorities have vowed to intensify surveillance and community engagement to prevent further loss of life.
“We urge residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting any suspicious gatherings or activities, especially in isolated areas,” said Biwott.