From The Straits Times · · 1m 10s
Kenyan cult leader convicted of 191 deaths
Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie found guilty of murdering 190 children and one adult in mass starvation deaths.
In brief
Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie found guilty of murdering 190 children and one adult in mass starvation deaths. Kenyan court convicted Paul Mackenzie of murdering 190 children and one adult through starvation in a cult-related tragedy. Originally reported by The Straits Times.
Conviction verdict
Kenyan court found Paul Mackenzie and 28 others guilty of murdering 190 children and one adult in a mass starvation tragedy.
Mass graves discovered
Over 400 bodies recovered from Shakahola Forest, with 26 children identified after severe decomposition.
Cult's starvation plan
Mackenzie ordered followers to starve children, women, and men in three phases to enter heaven before the world ended.
Arrest and charges
Mackenzie arrested in 2023 after police tip-off; faces terrorism charges and other deaths in Kwa Binzaro village.
Family impact
Francis Wanje, 62, lost eight family members including two grandchildren to the cult.
Court reaction
Justice Diana Kavedza-Mochache said children were isolated and denied food while parents watched.
Next steps
Mackenzie and co-accused will be sentenced on Nov 6; defence plans appeal after verdict.
The big picture
Kenyan court convicted Paul Mackenzie of murdering 190 children and one adult through starvation in a cult-related tragedy.
