Large number of bodies uncovered
Authorities in western Kenya have recovered about 32 bodies from a mass grave in Kericho. The dead include seven adults and 25 children, most of them infants and foetuses. Investigators also found scattered body parts at the site.
The discovery started after police received a court order to dig up 14 suspected graves. A whistleblower later led them to a much larger burial site.
Bodies found in sacks and unusual conditions
A government pathologist, Richard Njoroge, said the scene raised many questions. He noted that several bodies were found inside sacks, which is not normal for burials.
He also said the condition of the remains was not the same. Some were badly decomposed, while others were more preserved. This suggests they may have been buried at different times. Officials believe some bodies could have come from hospitals or mortuaries, but this still needs confirmation.
Questions over burial process and location
Investigators are now trying to understand how the bodies ended up on land linked to the National Council of Churches of Kenya. The organisation has denied any involvement and said the burial was done without approval.
Early findings from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations show that 13 unclaimed bodies were released from a hospital in Nyamira County and taken for burial. However, this does not explain the extra bodies found at the site.
Arrests and ongoing investigation
Police have arrested a public health officer and a cemetery caretaker. Several other people are being questioned as the investigation continues.
Human rights groups have called the discovery deeply disturbing. They are demanding a full and transparent investigation. Legal experts are also urging authorities to identify the victims as quickly as possible so families can get answers.
Links to earlier mass deaths in Kenya
This case has brought back memories of a similar tragedy in 2023 in the Shakahola forest near Malindi. Hundreds of bodies were found there in connection with a religious cult case.
Authorities continue to investigate whether there is any wider pattern behind these recent discoveries.
