Over 300 bodies were exhumed in the Shakahola forest after a Kenyan pastor ordered his congregation to fast so they could go to heaven to meet Jesus. 

Authorities in Kenya said the tragedy happened at Good News International Church led by Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, a former taxi driver who turned pastor, declared that the world was coming to an end. 

The pastor was arrested on suspicion of the molestation, starvation and death of children after which he was freed by the police until more evidence were provided 

Mr Mackenzie handed himself over to police in April for investigation, while investigation is ongoing. He has been denied bail by the court.

Mr Mackenzie will likely be charged with terrorism in the Eastern Africa country after 613 people were declared missing by officials. 

So far, 303 have died with an additional of 19 bodies exhumed from graves on Tuesday in the country’s southeast region. 

Last week investigators searched new areas within the forest and more bodies were discovered in graves.

On Monday, 65 rescued members of the church were charged with attempted suicide after they refused to eat for 5 days.

Kenya’s Interior Minister, Kithure Kindiki expressed concern that some members of the church were refusing food after being rescued to shelter homes.