MOMBASA, KENYA – Two senior female members of the Zion Fire Anointing Ministries in Changamwe, Mombasa, were arrested on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, amid a deepening investigation into suspected cult activities at the church. The arrests followed a series of police raids that began on Friday, October 31, leading to the rescue of 27 people, including 20 children, found living in deplorable conditions.

The operation, confirmed by Changamwe Sub-County Police Commander Patrick Gogo, was triggered after a man from Homa Bay County reported his daughter-in-law and three grandchildren missing. Investigations led police to the church, located just 100 metres from the local police station, where they found the woman and her children, who had allegedly been living there for over a month. According to Commander Gogo, subsequent raids uncovered a larger group of seven women and 20 children, aged between two and fifteen, living inside the church premises.

The two women were detained on Tuesday after they allegedly confronted and threatened journalists accompanying the police to the scene. Witnesses reported that one of the women brandished a rod before attempting to flee in a vehicle with the other suspect. They were intercepted by police about 500 metres from the church and are currently being interrogated.

Allegations of Neglect and Indoctrination

Authorities have raised serious concerns about the welfare of the children rescued from the Zion Fire Anointing Ministries. Commander Gogo described the conditions inside the church as “alarming” and “deplorable.” The congregants, including young children, were found sleeping on the bare floor without mosquito nets, a significant health risk in a malaria-prone region like Mombasa. Many of the children appeared weak and malnourished.

Investigators also found that school-aged children were being denied an education, with some missing their national exams, including the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA). “Today is a school day, and exams are ongoing. Yet children aged two to fifteen were here instead of being in school,” Gogo stated on Monday, November 3. Furthermore, at least one sick child was allegedly being denied medical care and was instead brought to the church for prayers.

The church's founder, Prophetess Elizabeth Kadori, also known as Nabii Betty, has denied all allegations of wrongdoing. In a statement, she claimed the police raid occurred after an overnight prayer vigil and that those found were simply resting before heading home. However, police noted that the presence of luggage and personal belongings suggested long-term residence. Commander Gogo also stated that the rescued individuals gave inconsistent accounts, suggesting they had been coached. Police have summoned Kadori for questioning, but she has yet to appear and is reportedly being pursued by authorities.

The Lingering Shadow of Shakahola

This incident in Mombasa inevitably draws parallels to the Shakahola massacre of 2023, where over 400 followers of cult leader Paul Mackenzie died in Kilifi County, many from starvation, after being instructed to fast to “meet Jesus.” The Shakahola tragedy exposed significant gaps in the state's ability to monitor and regulate religious organizations, prompting national outcry and introspection.

In response, President William Ruto established a task force to review the legal framework governing religious bodies. In July 2025, the Cabinet approved a new policy framework proposing the establishment of a Religious Affairs Commission to vet, license, and monitor religious organizations and their leaders. The stated aim is to protect citizens from exploitation and dangerous indoctrination while preserving freedom of worship.

The events at Zion Fire Anointing Ministries underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Kenyan authorities. Despite heightened vigilance post-Shakahola, fringe groups suspected of harmful practices continue to operate. Commander Gogo urged the public to remain cautious of extremist teachings. As the investigation in Changamwe proceeds, it serves as a critical test of the government's resolve to implement the proposed reforms and prevent a recurrence of Kenya's darkest chapter of religious extremism.