39 bodies uncovered as pastor tells members to ‘fast until they meet Jesus’

A Kenyan pastor named Paul Makenzi has been arrested for his role in a fast that resulted in the malnutrition and death of church members.

According to reports, 39 bodies have been discovered on Makenzi’s land, with more shallow graves yet to be discovered. Four people were found malnourished at Makenzi’s Good News International Church, increasing the total number of deaths to 43.

Under Makenzi’s influence, two children were also killed by their parents in order to “please God.” The preacher has been detained by police while the inquiry is ongoing.

Makenzi has already been detained in connection with the deaths of two children and released on bail both times. Kenyan legislators are urging Makenzi to be held in detention for the time being, citing fears over the proliferation of cults in the area.