Police obtain fresh orders to continue holding Mackenzie

 

The prosecution has obtained fresh orders to continue detaining controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie pending conclusion of investigations into the Shakahola cult. 

Police had on April 17 be granted orders to detain the preacher for 14 days which will lapse on April 30.

The Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji said in a statement on Tuesday that the decision to charge Mackenzie will be made based on the findings upon conclusion of investigations.

The decision to obtain fresh custodial orders was prompted by the preliminary investigations which indicate that Mackenzie and 14 of his followers may have been promoting radical beliefs for purposes of facilitating ideologically-based violence to advance political, religious or social change.

The DPP said this is contrary to Section 12D of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012.

Malindi chief magistrate Elizabeth Usui revoked a Sh10,000 bond and gave the go ahead for Mackenzie's arrest. 

Haji directed investigating officers to identify the assets belonging to the suspects so that they can preserve, confiscate and forfeit in accordance with the law.

"The ODPP undertakes to ensure that the rights of the victims are upheld at all times and where necessary, we will seek special protection measures," Haji said. 

The DPP has undertaken to prosecute all suspects found culpable in line with the Constitution and all other relevant laws upon completion of investigations.

He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting human rights and called on all individuals and organisations to work together to create a peaceful and equitable society for all.

Further, the Office of the DPP obtained orders for the exhumation of an unknown number of bodies from the 800-acre of land in Shakahola.

On Monday, Haji visited the cult site where as at Tuesday afternoon, a total of 90 bodies had been exhumed and 32 cult followers rescued.

Mackenzie is alleged to have indoctrinated his followers to starve themselves to death. 

The ODPP condemned the heinous act. 

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the victims," Haji added.