Body count in Kenyan fasting cult case rises to 73

Most of the bodies linked to the fasting cult were found in a forest in eastern Kenya (Photo: Getty).

Reuters quoted information from Kenyan police as saying that most of the 73 bodies were found in mass graves in a forest in the east of the country. The number of bodies could rise as authorities continue to excavate the forest.

The Kenya Red Cross Society said it had received reports of 112 missing people at its advice desk and a local hospital.

Paul Makenzie Nthenge, the leader of the sect, was arrested on April 14 after authorities discovered graves containing at least 31 victims believed to be members of the sect. In addition, 14 members of the sect were arrested. According to the NTV news site, one of the suspects is an assistant to Pastor Nthenge.

Investigators say the leader of the cult has urged his followers to starve to death to “meet God”. The followers are gathered in a remote settlement in the 300-hectare Shakahola forest in eastern Kenya.

When police raided the area, they discovered numerous graves and a group of cult members. Some were alive, but very emaciated and died shortly afterwards. So far, 33 people have been rescued by security forces.

Kenyan authorities are investigating.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-gioi/so-thi-the-trong-vu-giao-phai-nhin-an-den-chet-o-kenya-tang-len-73-20230425084059308.htm