Mackenzie’s Mother Arrested After Eight Children Rescued From Malindi Home

Kenyan authorities have rescued eight children from the Malindi home of Paul Mackenzie’s mother after reports that they were being subjected to prolonged fasting and kept out of school.

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) carried out the operation at Furunzi in Kilifi County on Wednesday after receiving information about the children’s living conditions. The children, aged between six and 14, were found at the home of Anastacia Mumwele, Mackenzie’s mother and their grandmother.

Police said the children were allegedly being subjected to strict practices associated with the teachings linked to Mackenzie’s religious movement. Investigators are examining claims that the minors were denied adequate food and prevented from attending school.

The children were removed from the home and taken to Malindi Police Station. Child welfare officers are expected to oversee their care as authorities determine appropriate protective measures.

The case was reportedly brought to the attention of police by members of Mackenzie’s family. His son, Dan Mackenzie, said he became concerned after seeing relatives, including children, allegedly refusing to eat and failing to attend school.

Dan said the children were not in critical physical condition and had been given food before being taken into police custody for their protection. Ms Mumwele was arrested and is expected to face charges relating to child cruelty, alleged torture and denying the children their right to education. She remains in police custody pending court proceedings.

The incident comes as authorities continue to investigate the wider activities and influence associated with Paul Mackenzie, whose teachings have been linked to the Shakahola deaths in Kilifi County. The Shakahola investigation centred on allegations that Mackenzie encouraged followers to fast to death. Authorities have continued to examine whether practices associated with his teachings remain in use among people connected to his religious network.

Mackenzie has been in custody for more than two years and faces numerous charges relating to deaths in Shakahola and Kwa Binzaro in Kilifi County. Prosecutors have accused him of involvement in hundreds of deaths and have brought murder and manslaughter charges against him and his co-accused. He also faces charges linked to terrorism and radicalisation.