A key suspect in the brutal murder of Catholic priest Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett has been arrested in Kerio Valley. The suspect was cornered by local residents at Tot Subcounty Hospital, where he had sought refuge after being pursued by locals and police reservists. He was swiftly handed over to a special police operations unit that has been deployed to the region to track down those responsible for the killing.
The arrest is a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the murder of Fr Bett, who was shot dead by armed bandits on May 22, 2025, in Kerio Valley. Authorities have confirmed that the man in custody is one of the main suspects, and a manhunt is still underway for at least three others believed to be involved in the crime. Police have intensified their operations in the area, determined to bring all the perpetrators to justice.
The killing of Fr Bett sent shockwaves across the country and ignited widespread outrage. The 35-year-old priest, who had served for less than three years, was known for his dedication and compassion. His death has highlighted the persistent insecurity in the Kerio Valley region, where banditry and violence continue to plague local communities.
In the aftermath of the murder, the Catholic-run Chesongoch Mission Hospital was shut down after medical staff fled the area over fears for their safety. The volatile situation prompted security agencies to issue a four-day ultimatum to local communities to surrender those responsible. That ultimatum expired on Thursday, triggering more aggressive police operations.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, who visited the area recently, warned that failure to cooperate with law enforcement would prompt the use of all necessary force to apprehend the suspects. He made it clear that the government would not tolerate impunity and urged local elders to fulfill their commitment to assist in handing over the culprits.
The murder of Fr Bett has drawn the attention of political and religious leaders who are calling for justice and an end to the violence that has gripped the region. Bishop Dominic Kimengich of the Eldoret Diocese announced that Fr Bett will be laid to rest on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the Holy Family Parish Church in Olessos, Nandi County. He condemned the killing and called for swift action to restore peace and ensure that such tragedies are not repeated.
Several regional leaders have joined in denouncing the murder. Governors from Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, as well as women representatives and county assembly officials, expressed their outrage and sorrow. One of the governors apologized to the church, emphasizing that the crime was committed by individuals and does not represent the entire community.
There has been criticism of the reluctance among locals to surrender the suspects, reportedly due to fear and intimidation. Leaders have urged the community to cooperate fully with authorities to avoid further suffering and to prevent collective punishment from law enforcement operations.
The arrest of one of the suspects marks a step forward in the pursuit of justice for Fr Bett. Authorities remain vigilant and committed to capturing the remaining suspects. The church and the affected communities now look to the government to ensure lasting peace and security in the Kerio Valley region.
