Shakahola cult: 8 more bodies recovered as Gov't suspends exhumation exercise

Eight more bodies were on Thursday exhumed at the Shakahola forest in Kilifi County where the search for victims of a suspected starvation cult led by controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie is ongoing.

Despite the increase in numbers resulting from the tragedy which now stands at 235, the government has suspended the exhumation exercise owing to preparation for the post-mortem examination set to begin on Wednesday next week.

Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha made the announcement saying that only the search and rescue operations will continue as planned.

She said the searchers managed to rescue four people, where one was found in a critical condition. The total number of people rescued so far stands at 89.

The Regional Commissioner at the same time noted that two more people were reported missing, bringing the total number to 613.

The alleged cult is linked to Good News International Church pastor Mackenzie, who is accused of brainwashing his followers to starve themselves to death in order to "meet Jesus."

Mackenzie is still on trial remains in custody, even though he has denied the allegations levelled against him.