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Case Number
20241206SHAKAHOLA
Case Date of Filing
07/12/2024
Suspected/Known Time of Incident
Local Time and Date: 12:00hrs. 10/01/2024
GMT/Zulu Time and Date: 12:00hrs 10/01/2024
Case Researcher(s)
Maite Unzue
The Shakahola forest investigation in Kilifi County, Kenya, continues to uncover mass graves tied to a cult led by Pastor Paul Mackenzie. As of late 2023, more than 450 bodies have been exhumed, and hundreds remain missing. The graves are highly organized, containing multiple bodies, with causes of death primarily attributed to starvation, assault, and asphyxiation, in alignment with Mackenzie’s apocalyptic teachings urging followers to fast to "meet Jesus".
Satellite imagery and GPS technology are playing a crucial role in locating graves across the 50,000-hectare Chakama ranch. Investigators have mapped over 50 mass graves and continue their work in phases, revealing that some graves appear freshly dug, raising concerns that burials may persist. This suggests ongoing involvement of cult associates hiding in the forest​.
Case Location:
Latitude/Longitude (WGS84)
3°06′43″S 39°33′07″E
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Town/Region/Country
Shakahola Forest is situated near Shakahola village in Kilifi County, southeastern Kenya, about 69.9 km from Malindi town.
Individual Incident Locations:
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Potential location 1 and 2:
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Case Location Evidence Below:
Casualties
Total Suspected/Known Number of Casualties: 429 casualties. 600 missing in total
Grave Characteristics:
Organization: The graves were meticulously arranged side by side.
Grave Size: Each grave typically contained 5–6 bodies, though some contained up to 10.
Victims: Included men, women, and children. The youngest victim was a 2-month-old infant.
Cause of Death
Primary Cause: Starvation. Pastor Paul Mackenzie preached that fasting to death would ensure ascension to heaven, claiming the apocalypse was near.
Other Causes: Some bodies bore signs of violence, including:
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Blunt-force trauma to the head.
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Asphyxiation.
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Other forms of physical assault.
Suspected or Known Aggressors:
Key Figure: Pastor Paul Mackenzie
Mackenzie led the Good News International Church, which promoted apocalyptic beliefs.
He instructed followers to fast to death as a means of spiritual salvation.
His teachings also included the avoidance of modern medicine and worldly possessions, further endangering his followers.