Paul Mackenzie detained for 30 more days

A court in Mombasa has allowed an application by the police to have the Shakahola cult leader Paul Mackenzie and his wife Rhoda Maweu detained for 30 days. Sixteen other people suspected of working in cahoots with the infamous pastor will also be held for the same period.

Shanzu Principal Magistrate, Yusuf Shikanda ruled that the respondents’ safety and security may be at risk if released on bond now. The court observed that the unfolding situation at Shakahola, where more than 133 bodies have been exhumed and several victims rescued cannot be ignored.

Police had applied to have Pastor Mackenzie, his wife and 16 others held for 30 days to allow them humble time to conclude investigations. Inspector Rapheal Wanjoi, the investigating officer in his application said the period of detention granted by a Malindi court was insufficient owing to the evolving nurture of the case and lines of inquiry being pursued.

He told the court that the identities of some of the suspects were unknown and that he needed more time to investigate them. He said over 103 bodies had been exhumed and the numbers kept rising. A DNA test was to be conducted and it was until the last body is recovered that the same will be done.

The magistrate concluded that the application was meritorious and proceeded to allow the police to hold all the suspects in various police stations as proposed by the state. He directed that all the suspects while in custody shall be treated in a humane manner and with respect to their inherent human dignity.

“During the time of detention, the respondents shall be granted reasonable access to their Advocates and family or any other person whose assistance will be necessary. The access will include the right to communicate privately with their Advocates,” Mr Shikanda ruled.

Pastor Mackenzie and his cahoots will be accorded medical examination, treatment and healthcare whenever they need it while in custody.