Cult leader Paul McKenzie detained on terrorism charges as death toll reaches 303 in Kenya

Police believe most of the dead found in the port city of Malindi in southeastern Kenya are followers of a cult founded by former taxi driver Paul McKenzie.

It is believed that he convinced his followers to starve themselves to death, promising that they would be able to meet Jesus this way.

Mackenzie, the founder of the International Church of the Good News, has been detained since April 14 and faces terrorism charges.

Coastal Region Police Commissioner Roda Onyancha said that the total number of known victims has reached 303 people.

Although the cause of death of most of the dead is starvation, some of them, including children, were strangled, suffocated or beaten to death.

Public questions are getting louder and louder as to how Mackenzie has managed to avoid trial so far, despite his past association with extremists and several cases filed against him.

Mackenzie has been arrested twice before in connection with the deaths of children. He was released on bail both times. The investigation of these cases is still ongoing.

President William Ruto has set up a special commission of inquiry and task force to look into the laws governing religious organisations.

Meanwhile, the other preacher detained in connection with this case – Ezekiel Odero – has already been released again on bail at the court hearing.

The influential and wealthy TV preacher has been charged with murder, assisted suicide, kidnapping, child cruelty, crimes against humanity, fraud and money laundering.