A pastor from Chakama in Kilifi County has been arrested following the mysterious deaths of several church members linked to bizarre rituals involving a so-called “Tree of Life.”
Pastor Abel Kahindi Gandi, 48, of the New Foundation Church in Magarini Constituency, was apprehended by security officers led by Kilifi North Deputy County Commissioner Samuel Mutisya Muinde and Malindi DCC David Lusava. The arrest follows complaints from the public and disturbing reports of deaths associated with the pastor’s spiritual practices.
According to police, Gandi instructed his followers to climb a tree within the church compound, claiming the ritual would expel evil spirits and bring divine solutions. However, investigations revealed that several individuals died under unclear circumstances during or after these sessions. Authorities say one woman died during an overnight prayer event, while the pastor was reportedly away.
The pastor, who denies any wrongdoing, insisted the ritual is divinely inspired. “That tree is the Tree of Life. When they climb it, evil spirits leave them,” Gandi said, welcoming the government’s investigation. He refuted claims of negligence or cultism, asserting he uses the Bible and only forgot it due to an urgent summons.
Despite his defense, security officials raised several red flags: the church is deep within Chakama forest, lacks proper registration, and Gandi could not provide proof of theological training or affiliations. He also admitted he does not baptize followers or observe basic church protocols, such as maintaining a membership register or handling burials.
In response, the Kilifi County Security Committee ordered the immediate closure of the church. “The situation is suspicious. People have died, and the pastor is the central figure,” said DCC Muinde.
This case echoes previous concerns about cultic practices in the region, notably the Shakahola tragedy involving Pastor Paul Mackenzie. Authorities are now tightening surveillance on unregulated religious movements as investigations continue.
Gandi remains in custody at Malindi Police Station pending further inquiry.
