Ezekiel charges dropped by DPP on Shakahola massacre

The Director of Public Prosecutions declared on Tuesday that there was insufficient evidence to connect Ezekiel Odero of the New Life Prayer Center and Church in Kilifi to the Shakahola massacre. As a result, Odero is now free.
Peter Kiprop, Coast Regional Coordinator, Office of the DPP, instructed Mombasa Criminal Investigations Officer to close the file against Odero and his church in a letter that was submitted to the court.
Odero was under investigation for a number of crimes, including murder, money laundering, radicalization, and terrorism, when he was taken into custody in April.
However, Shanzu Principal Magistrate Joe Omido terminated the case Monday and ordered the return of the KSh1.5 million cash bond.
State Prosecutor Anthony Musyoka said investigations had been completed and the file closed. “We have a report dated 30 October, 2023, from ODPP regional coordinator. We are of the opinion the case be closed as the investigations are complete and the respective files forwarded to the office of the ODPP,” he said.
Speaking after he was released, Odero said he had forgiven all those who had put him through wrongful prosecution.
He argued that the church’s future was being tested by his trial.  “We did nothing wrong, and we appreciate your support during these trying times.” This has to do with the church’s future. The Lord judged that our suffering was worthwhile in order to exalt Him. I have no personal grudges toward anyone or anything. Odero uttered, “Let the truth set you all free.”
Cliff Ombeta, Dunstan Omari, and Samson Nyaberi, his attorneys, declared they would not file a slander lawsuit.
Agencies