Catholic Priest Shot Dead by Bandits In Tot

The community of Tot in Elgeyo Marakwet County is once again in deep mourning after a Catholic priest from Tot Parish was shot dead this afternoon by suspected bandits in the troubled Kerio Valley region. The attack occurred in the Kisarian area of Kabigen, an insecurity-prone zone within Marakwet East Constituency.

The priest, a well-known spiritual leader and peace advocate, was ambushed and killed by unidentified gunmen. The brutal incident has triggered shock, sorrow, and renewed fear among residents.

Tot High School Closed Indefinitely

In the wake of the latest violence, Tot High School has been closed indefinitely, with students sent home amid concerns for their safety. The closure marks yet another disruption to education in a region plagued by recurring attacks and general instability.

Worsening Insecurity and Previous Killings

The killing comes just over two months after three bodies of banditry victims were released from Tot Mortuary on March 10, 2025, following a deadly ambush in Endo Ward. Despite heightened security efforts, including the delivery of a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle and a disarmament ultimatum by security officials, peace remains elusive.

Local leaders and families have repeatedly pleaded with the national government to intensify its efforts. “We’ve buried too many loved ones. Deploying equipment is not enough—what we need is lasting peace and real protection,” said a community elder.

Calls for Immediate and Lasting Solutions

Residents and leaders are now calling for a firm, coordinated security crackdown, as well as long-term solutions such as community-led peacebuilding and economic empowerment programs to address the root causes of the violence.