Growing tragedy of Kenya suicide cult infographic
Graphic maps the deadliest cult-related incidents in recent history.
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KENYA

More bodies exhumed from site of Kenyan suicide cult

By Ninian Carter

April 26, 2023 - Deaths are rising among followers of a Kenyan cult who were led to believe they would go to heaven if they starved themselves.

The death toll among followers of a Kenyan starvation cult called the Good News International Church, has reached at least 90, with the Red Cross saying more than 200 people are still missing.

Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge, who heads the cult, is accused of luring followers to the 320-hectare coastal Shakahola ranch, and convincing them to fast until death in order to “meet Jesus”.

Nthenge has been arrested twice in connection with the deaths of children – once in 2019 and again in March this year. Each time he was released on bail.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 26/04/2023; STORY: Graphic News
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