
Chakama, Malindi — In a chilling déjà vu moment for Kenya, security forces have stormed a church suspected of harboring deadly cult-like practices just miles from the infamous Shakahola Forest mass grave site. The New Foundation Church, led by controversial preacher Abel Kahindi Gandi, has been abruptly shut down after horrifying reports of unexplained deaths linked to bizarre prayer rituals.
Authorities descended on the church following disturbing whispers from locals and reports that at least three worshippers mysteriously died during alleged “healing sessions.” The preacher, self-styled as a spiritual leader, was immediately arrested and is now in police custody pending investigation.

“This isn’t just about prayer — people have died here,” said Kilifi North Deputy County Commissioner Samuel Mutisya Muinde in a press briefing outside the locked church gates. “The pastor is directly implicated. Lives have been lost, and this cannot be ignored.”
The scene has sent shockwaves through the community, eerily echoing the Shakahola horror, where over 400 bodies were discovered in shallow graves last year — a haunting symbol of unchecked extremist teachings hiding behind religious freedom.
The government is now under pressure to crack down on rogue churches as the country faces what appears to be a resurgence of deadly cult movements. Authorities have vowed a full-scale investigation and promised justice for the victims, as the nation watches in fear of another national tragedy unfolding.