Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett of Tot Parish Killed by Bandits in Kerio Valley – Elgeyo Marakwet Mourns Again

A devastating wave of grief has swept through Elgeyo Marakwet County after the brutal killing of Rev. Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett, the parish priest of St. Mathias Mulumba Catholic Church, Tot Parish. The priest was ambushed and shot dead in Kisarian, Kabigen area, within Kerio Valley, a region grappling with ongoing banditry and insecurity.

The incident has once again highlighted the rising levels of violence and lawlessness in Marakwet East Constituency, where local residents continue to live in fear despite recent security deployments.

Police Confirm the Attack

Kerio Valley Police Commander Peter Mulinge confirmed the tragic murder and stated that investigations into the killing are ongoing. The priest, a well-respected leader and peace ambassador, was attacked in broad daylight by unidentified armed criminals.

This tragic event comes just months after the release of three bodies from Tot Mortuary, victims of a similar ambush in Endo Ward — part of a string of violent attacks attributed to cattle rustlers and armed gangs.

Tribute from Woman Rep Hon. Caroline Jeptoo Ng’elechei

Elgeyo Marakwet County Woman Representative, Hon. Caroline Jeptoo Ng’elechei, shared a moving tribute:

“A dark cloud hangs over Kerio Valley. The brutal killing of a man of God, a priest and a servant of peace and hope — Rev. Fr. Allois Cheruiyot Bett of St. Mathias Mulumba, Tot Parish — is not just a loss to the Church but a deep wound in the soul of our community.”

Her words reflect the widespread shock and sorrow following the priest’s death, with leaders and citizens alike demanding urgent action from the government.

Schools Close Amid Rising Tension

In response to the killing, Tot High School was closed indefinitely, as fear and uncertainty gripped the community. Parents withdrew their children as the threat of continued attacks loomed large.

Despite recent efforts by the national government, including the deployment of a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle and a disarmament campaign, many residents say the situation has only worsened.

A Call for Long-Term Solutions

The murder of Fr. Bett has reignited national debate on how to handle insecurity in Kerio Valley and other conflict-prone areas of Kenya. Leaders and community members are calling for:

• Targeted disarmament of illegal gun holders

• Improved intelligence-led security operations

• Community-led peacebuilding efforts

• Economic empowerment programs for at-risk populations