Residents of Kerio Valley have requested a three-day window to identify and name the killers of Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett, a Catholic priest who was brutally murdered last week in East Marakwet. The plea was made during a tense security meeting convened at Chesongoch, attended by local leaders, clergy, and senior police officials.
Father Bett, who had served at St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish for less than six months, was ambushed and fatally shot last Thursday while travelling back to Tot after presiding over a mass in Kakbiken village. His untimely death has shaken the local community, leading to the temporary closure of schools and health facilities due to fear and insecurity.
The killing has reignited concerns over persistent insecurity in the North Rift region, where attacks by suspected armed bandits continue despite an increased security presence.
During the meeting, Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat confirmed that six suspects had already been arrested in connection with the incident. However, he gave the local community until Thursday to provide additional names of those responsible, warning that failure to do so would result in intensified security operations.
“Give me those criminals who killed the father. You have told me you need three days we are waiting,” Lagat stated. “If the names are not provided by Thursday, it will not be business as usual here.”
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich and Nandi Governor Stephen Sang urged the national government to act swiftly against the criminal gangs terrorizing residents. They also called on locals to support security agencies in their investigations.
Bishop Dominic Kimengich of the Eldoret Catholic Diocese appealed for unity and cooperation among residents and leaders to ensure justice for the slain priest.
In a bid to restore normalcy, Lagat assured residents and government officers—including teachers and healthcare workers that security would be enhanced. He announced that police reservists would be deployed to guard all schools and essential facilities across the valley.
The community now awaits the outcome of this critical three-day period, hopeful that justice for Father Bett will be swiftly delivered.
