Authorities in Kilifi County have arrested a 48-year-old pastor and shut down his church over allegations of cultic practices. Pastor Abel Kahindi Gandi was apprehended on Thursday in Chakama location, Malindi Sub-county, following investigations into suspicious activities at his place of worship.
The arrest comes in the wake of disturbing claims, including the death of a woman during an overnight prayer session at the church last year. Local officials say the incident raised alarm over the practices taking place within the premises.
According to authorities, Pastor Gandi is accused of using unconventional methods of exorcism. Among them is reportedly instructing followers believed to be possessed by demons to climb a ‘tree of life’ located within the church compound as part of a supposed deliverance ritual. He is also said to have been selling so-called ‘living water’ to congregants, further raising concerns over potential exploitation.
The incident has reignited public concern in Chakama, an area already reeling from past tragedies linked to religious extremism. The location was thrust into the national spotlight last year when hundreds of followers of controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie died after reportedly starving themselves in what was termed a deadly cult.
County officials have reiterated their commitment to streamlining religious operations and protecting the public from manipulative spiritual practices. Investigations into Pastor Gandi’s activities are ongoing.
“We will not allow places of worship to be turned into centers of exploitation and harm,” said a local government official involved in the operation.
The church will remain closed as authorities continue their probe.
