Kilifi pastor arrested in connection to ‘Tree of Life’ deaths
His arrest came after public complaints and alarming reports of fatalities tied to his spiritual practices.
A pastor from Chakama in Kilifi County has been arrested following a series of mysterious deaths linked to strange rituals involving a so-called "Tree of Life."
Pastor Abel Kahindi Gandi, aged 48, of the New Foundation Church in Magarini Constituency, was taken into custody by law enforcement officers under the leadership of Kilifi North Deputy County Commissioner Samuel Mutisya Muinde and Malindi District Commissioner David Lusava.
His arrest came after public complaints and alarming reports of fatalities tied to his spiritual practices.
Authorities revealed that Gandi had instructed his followers to climb a tree located within the church compound, claiming that the ritual would drive away evil spirits and offer divine solutions.
However, investigations uncovered that several individuals passed away under mysterious circumstances during or shortly after these sessions.
One woman reportedly died during an overnight prayer event, while the pastor was absent at the time.
The pastor, who denied any involvement in the deaths, maintains that the ritual is divinely guided.
"That tree is the Tree of Life. When they climb it, evil spirits depart from them," Gandi explained, while expressing openness to the government investigation.
He rejected accusations of negligence or cult-like behavior, stating that he follows the Bible but forgot to bring it due to a sudden summons.
Despite his defense, law enforcement officials highlighted several concerns: the church is located deep within Chakama, lacks proper registration, and Gandi could not provide evidence of any theological training or affiliations.
Additionally, he acknowledged that he does not baptize followers or adhere to standard church practices, such as keeping a membership register or managing funeral rites.
In response, the Kilifi County Security Committee issued an order for the immediate closure of the church.
"The situation is suspicious. People have lost their lives, and the pastor is at the center of it all," stated DCC Muinde.
This incident brings to mind earlier concerns about cult-like practices in the area, particularly the Shakahola tragedy involving Pastor Paul Mackenzie.
It also comes in the wake of suspected cult-like activities at the Melkio St Joseph's Church in Rongo, Migori County, where the government shut down the church after two congregants died while 57 were detained at a local police station.
Authorities are now increasing their scrutiny of unregistered religious groups as investigations progress.
Gandi is currently being held at Malindi Police Station as the inquiry continues.