Police arrest Mackenzie's wife in probe into Shakahola deaths

Police on Monday arrested the wife of pastor Paul Mackenzie in the ongoing investigation into the Kilifi cult.

Rhoda Mumbua Maweu was arrested from her house in Mtwapa alongside her aunt on Monday night, police said.

The investigation team said she is a person of interest in the case where the suspected cult has led to the deaths of tens of people.

Mackenzie and pastor Ezekiel Odero are expected in court on Tuesday, May 2.

Police said Mumbua has been identified as a key figure within the church's operations hence the move to arrest her.

She is also expected in court.

Mackenzie has been accused of manipulating people through skewed, extreme religious teachings and fear of the unknown in pursuit of salvation, leading to the deaths of many of his followers.

He is in police custody for allegedly preaching a doctrine that encourages his followers to starve themselves to death in order to reach heaven faster.

Other victims are said to have been strangled.

Police have been reviewing Mackenzie's phone records and interviewing individuals connected to the church.

It was during this process that Mumbua’s name came up as a person of interest.

She is the 'human resource manager' for Mackenzie's administration.

So far 110 bodies have been exhumed and the operation is going on in Shakahola forest using technology and aerial surveillance.

Police arrest Mackenzie's wife in probe into Shakahola deaths

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