The Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has given an update on the Shakahola massacre.
In a statement on Tuesday, January 16, the DPP said the suspects will be charged with murder, manslaughter and assault causing bodily harm.
“Upon thorough analysis of the evidence, the DPP is satisfied that there is sufficient evidence to prosecute ninety-five (95) suspects with the charges listed,” read the statement.
The DPP has also directed that the suspects be presented before the high court and subordinate court forthwith.
DPP stated that the suspects will also be charged with engaging in organized criminal activity contrary to the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act, 2010.
“The ODPP undertakes to expeditiously prosecute the matters in view of the great public interest involved,” added the DPP.
Further, the 95 suspects will be arraigned for radicalization contrary and facilitating the commission of a terrorist act contrary to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012.
Crimes Under Children Act
Additionally, they will be charged with subjecting a child to torture and cruelty to a child contrary to the Children Act, 2022.
They will also be implicated for infringing a child’s right to education contrary to the Basic Education Act, 2013.
Shakahola Massacre
The suspects are being charged after the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) conducted investigations into the circumstances under which over 429 people died in Shakahola forest within Kilifi County.
Controversial pastor Paul Mackenzie was arrested after discovery of the bodies.
In December 2023 a Malindi Court sentenced Pastor Paul Mackenzie to one year in prison.
Also Read: ODPP Clarifies Dropping Pastor Ezekiel Case
Senior Magistrate Olga Onalo sentenced the pastor for using video content without the approval of the Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB).
In addition, the magistrate handed the pastor another six-months sentence for operating a media house without a license as required by the law.
DPP Rules Out Pastor Ezekiels Clearance
Evangelist Pastor Ezekiel Odero of New Life Church was also arrested for his alleged links with Mackenzie.
Earlier on Pastor Ezekiel’s Church had been barred from conducting crusades in some locations.
The state also deregistered his church among four others before his legal team obtained a court order in August 2023 barring the process.
In October 2023, a Mombasa court cleared Pastor Ezekiel Center from a case linking him to the Shakahola massacre.
Also Read: Pastor Mackenzie Sent to Prison
The court also directed the state to refund Ksh1.5 million he had paid as cash bail.
However, the DPP dismissed reports stating that it sought an extension of custodial orders for a further thirty (30) days to enable the police complete to investigations.
“Contrary to the said reports, we would like to clarify that a review of the inquiry files in respect of Mr. Odero is ongoing and no case against him has been terminated as alleged,” said DPP.
The ODPP further clarified that his custodial extension was more important to prevent potential interference of witnesses.
