Suspected Mass Grave With Multiple Bodies Discovered in Kericho

mass grave site in Shakahola forest, in south-east Kenya, where the pastor Paul Mackenzie and his followers lived. Photograph: Yasuyoshi Chiba/AFP/Getty Images

Police in Kericho County have launched investigations following the discovery of a suspected mass grave containing multiple bodies at a public cemetery in the Makaburini area.

According to a police report filed under OB No. 37/21/03/2026 at 1620 hrs, the incident was first reported by a member of the public who raised concerns over unusual activity at the cemetery.

Officers from Kericho Police Station visited the site, approximately 1.5 kilometres northeast of the station, led by DCIO Kericho and supported by Scenes of Crime personnel.

Upon inspection, investigators established the presence of a freshly dug grave at the cemetery.

Police gathered preliminary information indicating that two casual labourers in the area, who primarily dig graves and assist with burials, provided key leads.

The two, aged 26 and 23, told investigators that on Thursday, March 19th, a vehicle carrying three individuals arrived at the cemetery and held discussions with a caretaker identified only as Ezekiel.

The following day, Friday, March 20th, at around 6:00 a.m., the same individuals reportedly returned in a white Land Cruiser and engaged two labourers to dig a large grave.

The witnesses alleged that approximately 14 bodies, all placed in body bags, were later transported and buried in the single grave. Some of the bodies were reported to be mutilated.

The discovery has been likened to the Shakahola mass grave, one of the most unsettling events in Kenya's recent history.

In 2023, officials discovered dozens, and eventually hundreds, of bodies buried in shallow graves in the Shakahola forest of Kilifi County.

The contentious preacher Paul Mackenzie led a cult that connected these bodies. It is believed that the victims died from starvation, having been directed to fast in their quest for religious salvation.

The incident stunned the nation, leading to extensive examination of religious organizations, law enforcement oversight, and community reporting systems.

It also resulted in demands for tighter regulation of religious institutions and quicker responses to suspicious deaths.

Authorities have begun investigating the incident and plan to seek a court order to exhume the bodies on Monday, March 23rd, 2026, to verify identities and determine the cause of death.

Efforts are currently underway to trace the cemetery caretaker, Ezekiel, who is considered a key person of interest in the investigation.

Authorities say further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.