Interior and Nationa Administration Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Shakahola area of Kilifi County beginning April 26, 2023 for 30 days.

In a press statement, the CS said the area is an active security operation zone and no access to it by the public shall be permitted.

“Curfew orders have also been declared and gazetted within the said area between 1800 hrs in the evening up to and until 0600 hrs in the morning for a period of thirty (30) days.

“There shall be no public gatherings, processions or movement either alone or as a group during the period of curfew into and out of Chakama Ranch except as shall be permitted, in writing, by the Kilifi County Police Commander in consultation with the Operation Commander,” Kindiki said.

At the same time, the CS declared the area as disturbed and crime scene.

“Pursuant to Section 106 (1) of the National Police Service Act (CAP 11A) and Section 8(1) of the Public Order Act (CAP 56) of the Laws of Kenya, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration has declared Chakama Ranch, all that land known as L.R Number 13472/1 measuring 20,418 hectares and situated in Lango Baya Division, Malindi Sub-County, of Kilifi County, a disturbed area.

“The aforesaid declaration is contained in the Kenya Gazette Legal Notices Number 52 and 53 of 2023 published on Tuesday, 25th April 2023. 3. The area has also been declared a crime scene,” he added.

Shakahola village

Kindiki also said the government has set up a Public Information, Tracing and Support Centre at the entrance to Chakama Ranch at Shakahola Village, at the turnoff from the Malindi-Sala Gate highway approximately 70 kilometers from Malindi Town.

“Members of the public are advised to file any enquiries, information or missing person(s) report(s) at the Public Information, Tracing and Support Centre or call the Centre helpline 0112 966 857,” he added.

By Tuesday, April 25, up to 90 bodies had been recovered from shallow graves within Shakahola forest where the New Good News International Church of Pastor Paul Mackenzie is situated.

The pastor is said to have forced his followers to fast to death in order to meet Jesus.

He is currently in police custody awaiting arraignment in court.