Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called on families who lost loved ones in the Shakahola cult tragedy to come forward and submit DNA samples to aid in the identification process.
Murkomen noted that the ongoing investigation has been delayed due to a lack of DNA submissions from some affected families. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in order to ensure justice and closure for the victims’ families.
“The Government Chemist requires more samples to facilitate DNA matching. We are fully committed to accelerating this process,” said the CS.
He further explained that identifying the victims will allow the government to create a monument in honor of those whose remains have not been claimed. The unidentified bodies were recovered from shallow graves in Shakahola Forest, located within Chakama Ranch in Kilifi County.
“We urge families to cooperate and help us obtain the necessary samples. Only a few people have reported missing relatives. For those we can’t identify, a memorial site will be established,” he added.
Speaking to the press after a security briefing in Kilifi County, CS Murkomen acknowledged that financial limitations have also played a role in slowing down the investigation.
