A self-styled African “tribe” living in a Scottish forest has been evicted from their camp in the Borders after footage of their removal was livestreamed online. Three members of the group known as the Kingdom of Kubala were given an eviction notice after living for several weeks in woods near Jedburgh.
The group, led by 36-year-old Kofi Offeh, who calls himself “King Atehene,” includes his wife Jean Gasho, 43, also known as “Queen Nandi,” and 21-year-old Kaura Taylor, who calls herself “Asnat” and is described as the couple’s “handmaiden.” They had previously been removed from another site before moving into the forest.
Local authorities say the group first occupied private land but later moved over a fence onto a neighbouring plot owned by the council. Jedburgh councillor Scott Hamilton confirmed that law enforcement officers attended the site on Thursday morning (2 October) to remove the trio.
“The site is currently being cleared by the council,” Hamilton said. “There are still a few things at play with regard to the situation, but I think this morning has been a good result for the community, and for them as well in terms of the outcome.”
Footage of the eviction was uploaded to social media by Gasho, who claimed that the group had been living on land stolen from their African ancestors 400 years ago. The videos show police officers at the camp and the group resisting removal.
Concerns about Taylor’s presence in the group have been raised by her mother, Melba Whitehead, who spoke to Sky News from Texas. Whitehead said her daughter was reported missing from Dallas in May 2025 and alleged that the “cult” groomed her on social media before flying her to the UK.
“They utilised the fact that she was angry. To encourage her to get away. They used the fact she was penniless,” the 45-year-old said. “They utilised the funds that they had at their disposal to send for her. They made that happen.” A video posted online also shows Offeh claiming ownership over Taylor, stating: “I bought you at a price.”
Whitehead added: “I believe that Jean and Kofi are opportunistic. I believe there are leeches and vultures for my daughter.”
When asked by Sky News if he was operating a cult, Offeh denied coercing anyone. “This is the Kingdom. Brainwashing is the best thing ever to happen to man if it is coming from the right source. For everyone’s brain needs to be washed by righteousness,” he said. “I am the King of Kubala, and all nations belong to me. Everyone you see bows before me because I am the chosen one. They are not coerced, they are called.”
The Kingdom of Kubala has not publicly commented further on the eviction since the footage was shared online. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any charges will follow.
