Six suspects have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Reverend Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett of St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish, Elgeyo Marakwet County.
In a statement on Thursday, May 22, the National Police Service (NPS) said Bett was reportedly accosted and fatally shot by the armed assailants.
Police say officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) responded to the scene and immediately launched a manhunt.
NPS confirmed that the motive behind the killing is unrelated to cattle rustling or banditry.
"The incident occurred in Mokoro Location, Kakiptul Sub-Location, Kabartile Village. General Service Unit officers responded swiftly and established that Father Bett was accosted and fatally shot by armed assailants. A manhunt was immediately launched, and six suspects have since been arrested and are currently in custody.
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"Preliminary investigation indicates that the incident is not in any way related to cattle rustling or banditry," the statement read.
NPS condemned the killing and vowed to pursue justice, further asking locals to cooperate with law enforcement when called upon
“The NPS condemns this heinous act and is committed to conducting thorough and expeditious investigations to apprehend all those involved in the crime. The Service extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett, as well as the parishioners of St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish.
"We appeal to local communities in the area to remain calm, continue with their daily activities without fear, and cooperate with the National Police Service,” the statement added.
