Catholic Priest Killed in Kerio Valley Ambush

A Catholic priest was fatally shot in an ambush in the Kerio Valley on Thursday afternoon, triggering renewed concerns over the persistent insecurity that has plagued the region despite ongoing security interventions. 

Father Alloiss Cheruiyot Bett of St. Lumumba Catholic Church in Tot Parish was killed when his vehicle was attacked by armed assailants shortly after he concluded community service in Kakbiken village. According to Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge, the priest was travelling back to his base, accompanied by a catechist, when the attack occurred. 

Witnesses report that the attackers, believed to be young armed bandits, unleashed a volley of bullets at the vehicle. While three shots missed, one struck Father Bett in the neck, resulting in his immediate death. The whereabouts and safety of the catechist remain unknown, prompting increased concern.

Authorities have initiated a security operation to track down the perpetrators, with a joint task force composed of police officers, National Police Reservists (NPR), and local residents pursuing leads. A violent exchange of gunfire has already been reported as law enforcement intensifies efforts to restore order in the area. The attack, which took place approximately one kilometre from a police station, has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of current security measures.

The Kerio Valley has long been afflicted by banditry and inter-communal violence, despite sustained efforts by security forces to quell the unrest. A Kenya Defence Forces (KDF)-led operation, which spanned two years, had aimed to stabilise the region, but violent incidents continue to claim lives. The resurgence of attacks has prompted renewed calls for more effective and sustainable security strategies.

Bishop Dominic Kimengich of the Eldoret Diocese, who had recently voiced concerns over the rising insecurity, is expected to visit the scene of the ambush. 

In a prior statement, he emphasised the need for decisive government action to prevent further loss of innocent lives, reflecting the growing frustration among local communities who believe that authorities have yet to implement a viable solution to the issue of armed banditry. The Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has been briefed on the incident. 

This incident comes amidst ongoing investigations into the death of another Catholic priest, Father John Maina Ndegwa, whose body was discovered on the roadside in Kikopey, Gilgil, on May 19. Father Ndegwa, head of Igwamiti Catholic Parish in Nyandarua, had reportedly sustained serious injuries and was found over 50 kilometres from his workstation.

Authorities suspect foul play in Father Ndegwa’s death, with preliminary investigations indicating that he may have been trailed by individuals demanding a share of funds allegedly given to him by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. While speculation over the circumstances surrounding his death has been widespread, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations has urged the public to disregard unverified reports.

An autopsy revealed that the bruises on Father Ndegwa’s head were not likely the primary cause of death, leading to further toxicological analysis to determine the exact cause. Detectives are currently piecing together his final movements to identify potential suspects, and several statements have been recorded. Investigators are relying on forensic evidence to establish the motive behind the crime.