The Director of Public Prosecutions on Monday raised concern that the Shakahola victims, both male and female, have been interacting freely at the rescue center. And there is potential for cases of unwanted pregnancies to be reported from the facility.
The state is seeking orders to be allowed to yet again transfer the 65 victims to a prison facility.
“The victims have now fully recovered, they are energetic and they have been reported to have sexual intercourse. Most of their time is being spent in this, alongside eating and freely socializing inside their hostels,” he said.
The state wants the 65 victims—26 males and 39 females—to be held at Shimo La Tewa Prison, where there are separate detaining facilities for both males and females.
“To avoid cases of unwanted pregnancies or SGBV, we must find a place where male and female victims are held separately,” Yamina said.
He said they have not heard any case so far, but they need to be cautious.
Rescue mission
The 65 victims were rescued from the Shakahola forest in March this year after allegedly being recruited into the cult by suspected cult leader Paul Mackenzie.
At the time of their rescue, they were being forced to fast to hasten their death to meet Jesus.
Shakahola victims refuse to record statements
It has now emerged that the victims have continued to frustrate the State’s efforts to build a case against Mackenzie by declining to record statements and share crucial evidence with homicide detectives.
It still remains unclear if the victims are ready to testify against Mackenzie, considering that they have declined to cooperate with homicide detectives and have so far they have declined to sign their written statements which are set to be used against the preacher.
By Wanjiru Mbaru