Kilifi: Police Shut Down Controversial Church Near Shakahola, Arrest Preacher

Authorities have raided and closed the New Foundation Church in Chakama, Kilifi County, arresting its preacher, Abel Kahindi Gandi, after disturbing reports of suspicious deaths and cult-like activities surfaced.

Located just kilometers from the infamous Shakahola Forest — the site of Kenya’s deadliest cult tragedy — the church raised alarm when at least three congregants reportedly died after attending prayer sessions. Kilifi North Deputy County Commissioner Samuel Mutisya Muinde confirmed the closure, citing urgent safety concerns.

“The deaths linked to this preacher’s ministry must be thoroughly investigated,” Muinde stated during a press briefing outside the church grounds.

Kahindi, who is currently in custody, is accused of brainwashing followers and promoting bizarre practices, such as encouraging congregants to climb a “Tree of Life” to exorcise demons. Authorities also discovered he was selling “holy water” for KSh 100 for three jerrycans and that he carried no Bible during interrogations.

More chillingly, officials noted that Kahindi’s church had no baptism protocols, no clear registration as a religious institution, and suspicious teachings eerily similar to those that led to the Shakahola massacre.

Meanwhile, in Migori County, another group of 57 congregants was rescued from a different cult-like church but refused to return home, further highlighting the growing crisis of rogue religious groups across the country.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned that without swift action, Kenya risks facing another massive loss of life linked to radical religious movements

In other news:Tragedy in Kahawa Sukari: Young KDF Soldier Dies by Suicide

Kilifi: Police Shut Down Controversial Church Near Shakahola, Arrest Preacher