Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered an intensified manhunt for bandits in Kerio Valley following a recent wave of violence, including the brutal killing of Catholic priest Fr. Alloys Cheruiyot Bett.
Speaking during a condolence visit to Fr. Bett’s family in Cheplasgei Village, Kilibwoni Division, Murkomen condemned the attack and vowed that the government will pursue the assailants relentlessly. Fr. Bett was shot dead on Thursday in Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet County, an area that has long grappled with banditry and insecurity.
“In recent weeks, our security forces have intensified the crackdown against bandits in Kerio Valley. As a result, livestock theft has significantly reduced. Unfortunately, these criminals have now resorted to terrorist tactics, killing innocent civilians in a desperate attempt to instill fear and frustrate our efforts,” Murkomen stated.
Fr. Bett, known for his vocal opposition to banditry and dedication to peacebuilding, was targeted for his evangelism and community work. Murkomen emphasized that the attack was not random, but a calculated act meant to silence voices of peace.
“The murder of Fr. Bett is not just a crime, it is an act of terror. But we will not back down. Our officers will double their efforts to flush out these criminals. We are going to be relentless,” he said.
Murkomen highlighted that the killings of Fr. Bett, Bonface Ongote, and Simon Njaga illustrate a disturbing trend of bandits shifting tactics from cattle rustling to outright terrorism. However, he reassured the public that the government’s efforts are yielding results.
“Compared to 2024, banditry incidents in the region have dropped by more than 50% in the last five months. The larger Kerio Valley is pacified, save for a few hotspots. This progress is due to the dedication of our security forces, public cooperation, and the tireless work of peace champions like Fr. Bett,” he added.
Calling on local communities to maintain close cooperation with law enforcement, Murkomen urged residents to stand firm against intimidation. “Let us not surrender to fear. It is darkest before dawn, but dawn is coming. We shall overcome.”
He also assured that perpetrators of such heinous crimes will face the harshest penalties. “We will ensure justice is served. The blood of peacebuilders like Fr. Bett will not be shed in vain.”
Murkomen was joined by Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, Emgwen MP Josses Lelmengit, Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, and other local leaders during the condolence visit. He extended heartfelt sympathies to Fr. Bett’s parents, Eunice and Joseph Binder, his siblings, the Church, and the Diocese of Eldoret.
“Fr. Alloys was a beacon of hope and a dedicated servant of God. His legacy will inspire our continued fight for peace,” Murkomen concluded.
Written By Rodney Mbua
