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Kenya Begins Releasing Bodies of Cult Massacre Victims to Families

As the trial of cult leader Paul Mackenzie looms, families receive the first bodies for burial, while the identification process faces delays.

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A family member grieves as she waits to receive the bodies of victims of a religious cult for burial. Photo: AP
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Overview

  • Kenyan authorities began releasing bodies of doomsday cult victims to families, marking a significant step towards closure for relatives.
  • Cult leader Paul Mackenzie faces charges including murder, manslaughter, and terrorism, after inciting followers to starve to death in a bid to 'meet Jesus'.
  • So far, 34 of the 429 exhumed bodies have been positively identified through DNA profiling, with hundreds showing signs of starvation and violence.
  • The release process is delayed by challenges in DNA profiling, with many families still awaiting the return of their loved ones.
  • Kenya plans to convert the site of the massacre, Shakahola forest, into a national memorial site.