Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has returned to Kilifi County to resume the second phase of body exhumation at Shakahola forest, which had to be postponed due to unfavorable weather condition
The Shakahola forest in Kilifi County, Kenya has been the site of a developing story in recent weeks. The forest has been at the center of a human trafficking and murder investigation following the discovery of multiple bodies in shallow graves in the area.
In early April 2023, local residents alerted authorities to the discovery of multiple shallow graves in the forest, sparking an investigation by police and forensic experts. As the investigation progressed, the number of bodies discovered continued to rise, with reports suggesting that there may be as many as 50 or more victims.
The investigation has uncovered evidence of a human trafficking ring operating in the area, with victims being lured to the forest with the promise to see heaven after fasting and then being held captive, tortured, and killed. The suspects, who are believed to include several prominent individuals in the area, are alleged to have been involved in the sale of body parts and organs.
The investigation has been ongoing, with several suspects arrested and charged in connection with the murders. In early May 2023, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki oversaw the second phase of exhumation of bodies in the forest, which had been delayed due to bad weather. The government has promised to provide support to the families of the victims, many of whom are still waiting for news of their loved ones. The case has highlighted the issue of human trafficking and the need for stronger measures to combat the crime.
