'Suicide cult' leader held in California hospital

The leader of a Californian religious sect was held in hospital today after she and members of her group went missing, causing fears of a suicide pact.

Police launched a huge search after the group left behind notes suggesting they were awaiting the end of the world.

Reyna Marisol Chicas, 32, was placed under a 72-hour mandatory detention for a mental health check because she was not able to care for herself or others, said Los Angeles deputy Thomas Kim. He said she gave investigators a false name.

Officers found Chicas and 12 others, including children as young as three, in a park after getting a tip-off.

Police searched wide areas of southern California since Saturday after family members found letters saying the group of El Salvadorian immigrants was awaiting an apocalyptic event and would soon see Jesus and their dead relatives in heaven.

The sect members left behind mobile phones, identity documents, deeds to property and letters indicating they were awaiting the Rapture, which some Christians believe is an event during which they will be gathered together in the air and reunited with Christ.

"These letters read like a will and testament. They read like goodbye letters," said police spokesman Steve Whitmore.

Officials said there was no criminal investigation planned.