Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives conducting the exhumation process at Kericho’s Makaburini Cemetery have uncovered 33 bodies from a mass grave, raising serious questions over the circumstances surrounding the burials.

The exercise, carried out on Tuesday March 24, 2026, revealed a significantly higher number of remains than earlier reported.

Initial information had indicated that 14 bodies were buried at the site. However, officials now confirm that 33 bodies were recovered, including 25 children.

Authorities also disclosed that six body parts comprising both upper and lower limbs, were among the remains found at the scene.

In a statement, investigators said the bodies were in varying stages of decomposition, suggesting they were buried at different times. This has led to suspicions that the remains may have originated from multiple sources, including mortuaries.

“Recent findings at Kericho Cemetery have revealed the presence of multiple human remains under circumstances suggesting varied timelines and possible external sources,” DCI said.

Preliminary findings indicate that eight of the bodies belong to adults, while the majority 25 are children. The discovery has heightened concern among residents and authorities as investigators work to piece together how the remains ended up at the site.

The exhumation process was supervised by the Director of Homicide, Martin Nyuguto, alongside a government pathologist Dr Richard Njoroge, representing the Chief Government Pathologist. The remains have since been moved to a mortuary for detailed forensic examination.

Experts are expected to determine the cause and manner of death, as well as help identify the victims. Investigators will also assess whether any criminal activity is linked to the burials, beyond what has been described as irregularities in burial procedures.

The developments follow a court order issued on March 23, 2026, when two suspects were arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kericho. Through a miscellaneous application, investigators sought custodial and exhumation orders to facilitate ongoing inquiries.

The court granted the application, allowing authorities a 30-day window to conduct exhumations and carry out further forensic investigations.

As the probe continues, officials say their priority is to establish the identities of the deceased and determine the circumstances surrounding their deaths .