Shakahola cult probe: Gov’t declares 30-day dusk-to-dawn curfew at Chakama Ranch

The government has declared a 30-day dusk-to-dawn curfew at Chakama Ranch in Kilifi County where Shakahola Forest is located as the probe into a cult whose members starved themselves to death intensifies.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki through a Wednesday Gazette Notice declared the area a disturbed area and a scene of crime.

He banned all public gatherings, processions, or movement either alone or as a group between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. effective April 26.

“The area is an active security operation zone and no access to it by the public shall be permitted effective today 26th April 2023, except as may be permitted by the operation Commander and/or until these orders are vacated,” he added.

Additionally, Kindiki said the government has set up a Public Information, Tracing and Support Centre at the entrance to Chakama Ranch for those searching for loved ones suspected to have been a part of the deadly cult.

Anyone with enquiries, information or missing person report has been advised to alternatively call 0112 966 857.

The number of people who died in the incident where Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge of the Good News International Church is said to have instructed members to starve themselves in order to "meet Jesus" crossed 90 on Tuesday.

At the same time, those still missing were over 300 as sources close to the investigation said a majority of the dead were children.

Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore told journalists on Wednesday that eleven children were among those rescued alive and moved to a safe location. 

Police have also since arrested fourteen members of the cult. Mackenzie himself was charged last month after two children died of starvation while in their parents' care and he is still in police custody.