The government has launched an intensified manhunt for bandits operating in Kerio Valley following a spate of brutal killings, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen vowing to crush the criminal elements threatening peace in the region.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the late Fr. Alloys Cheruiyot Bett at their home in Cheplasgei Village, Kilibwoni Division, Murkomen condemned the killing of the Catholic priest, describing it as an act of terror meant to derail ongoing peace efforts.
Fr. Bett was murdered on Thursday in Tot, Kerio Valley, an area long plagued by insecurity and cattle rustling. Authorities believe his killing was linked to his prominent role in promoting peace and opposing banditry through his evangelism.“The murder of Fr. Bett must be seen in the context of his peace work,” said Murkomen. “This was not just a criminal act; it was a calculated move to instill fear and undermine our security operations.”
Murkomen said that although cattle rustling has been largely contained in recent months, the bandits have now shifted their tactics, resorting to acts of terror within communities to destabilize the region and discourage security crackdowns.“In the past five months alone, banditry incidents have reduced by more than 50 percent compared to 2024,” the CS noted. “This success has been achieved through the commitment of our security officers and collaboration with local communities and religious leaders like Fr. Bett.”
Recent victims of similar attacks include Bonface Ongote and Simon Njaga, further raising alarm about the evolving threat posed by the criminal gangs.
Murkomen urged residents of Kerio Valley Sub-County and surrounding areas to work closely with security agencies and share information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.“We are relentless. We shall not allow terrorists to win. The government is committed to bringing peace and justice to all affected communities,” he said, promising the harshest punishment for those behind the killings.
He extended his deepest condolences to Fr. Bett’s parents, Eunice and Joseph Binder, his siblings, the Catholic Church, and the faithful of St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish in the Diocese of Eldoret.“Fr. Bett was a courageous and committed servant of God who gave his all to his community. His loss is deeply painful and will not be in vain,” said Murkomen.
The Interior CS was accompanied by Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, Emgwen MP Josses Lelmengit, Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, Nandi Central DCC Jillet Jillo, area MCA Geoffrey Chemalan, and other local leaders during the visit.
