The High Court in Kilifi has summoned the prison boss to explain allegations of mistreatment and harassment of suspects linked to the Shakahola massacre. The suspects, who are currently in custody, have accused prison wardens of subjecting them to physical abuse, including beatings and other forms of harassment. The summons comes amid ongoing investigations into the tragic deaths linked to a controversial religious cult in the Shakahola forest.
The Shakahola massacre, which resulted in the deaths of numerous cult members, has been a major source of national and international concern. Survivors have reported severe mistreatment under the guise of religious discipline, prompting the government to crack down on cult-like organizations operating in the region. The latest allegations of harassment have added a new dimension to the case, raising questions about the treatment of suspects and detainees in Kenyan prisons.
Human rights groups have welcomed the court’s intervention, calling for transparency and accountability in the handling of suspects. They argue that all individuals, regardless of their alleged crimes, should be treated with dignity and fairness under the law. The court is expected to hear testimonies from the suspects and prison officials in the coming days
