Judges presiding over the murder trial of self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie and seven co-accused have visited key locations in Kwa Binzaro, Kilifi County, as part of efforts to better understand evidence presented in court regarding the Shakahola tragedy. The site visit formed part of the ongoing proceedings before the High Court in Mombasa, where the accused face charges linked to the deaths of more than 50 followers.
During the visit, the court toured the homestead of Shallyne Anindo Temba, where a protected witness identified as JO recounted how he and his family were allegedly locked in separate rooms and denied food. JO testified that his six children died from starvation and claimed some of the accused oversaw the fasting process under instructions allegedly relayed by Mackenzie. He also described the layout of the compound and how occupants were monitored to prevent escape.
The judicial team further inspected alleged gravesites concealed in nearby thickets, where investigators explained how disturbed soil and exposed human remains led to the discovery of burial sites. The visit is expected to help the court assess witness testimonies against the physical evidence presented during the trial. The case continues before the High Court in Mombasa as prosecutors seek to prove the murder charges against the accused.
During the visit, the court toured the homestead of Shallyne Anindo Temba, where a protected witness identified as JO recounted how he and his family were allegedly locked in separate rooms and denied food. JO testified that his six children died from starvation and claimed some of the accused oversaw the fasting process under instructions allegedly relayed by Mackenzie. He also described the layout of the compound and how occupants were monitored to prevent escape.
The judicial team further inspected alleged gravesites concealed in nearby thickets, where investigators explained how disturbed soil and exposed human remains led to the discovery of burial sites. The visit is expected to help the court assess witness testimonies against the physical evidence presented during the trial. The case continues before the High Court in Mombasa as prosecutors seek to prove the murder charges against the accused.
