The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji is seeking to seize property belonging to controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie amid an ongoing probe.
In a statement after visiting Mackenzie’s 800-acre piece in Shakahola, Malindi Kilifi County, Haji who condemned the horror incident that has so far seen a total of 90 people lose their lives due to starvation, also called for Mackenzie's prosecution and his fellow suspects to the full extent of the law.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may have committed serious crimes including but not limited to murder; procuring, counselling and aiding persons to kill themselves; terrorist acts by threatening national security and public safety and radicalization,” he said.
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“This is in violation of various statutes such as the Penal Code, the Prevention of Terrorism Act, the International Crimes Act, the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, among others.”
“Further, the ODPP has directed investigation officers to identify the assets of the suspects herein for purposes of preservation, confiscation, and forfeiture in accordance with the law.”
Kindiki's take on Mackenzie case
On his part, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki who also visited the place noted that the controversial pastor and cult leader will be charged with terrorism and crimes of genocide under international law.
"I want to encourage the Director of Public Prosecutions that it is not far-fetched to build a case of terrorism from what we have witnessed from this scene of the crime. It is not impossible.
“The purported use of the Bible to kill people cannot be tolerated. The government has nothing to hide and will ensure we convict Mackenzie with the most severe punishment available," Kindiki said.
