President William Ruto has sent his condolences to the Catholic Church in Eldoret following the tragic killing of Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett.
In a statement issued on Friday, President Ruto described Fr Bett as “a tireless promoter of peace and a true faith leader whose sermons were genuine, clear, and impactful.”
He offered prayers for comfort to the bereaved family, friends and the wider church community.
“May God grant the family and friends strength to bear this painful loss,” he said.
The President further assured the nation that the government will pursue justice and restore calm in the volatile Kerio Valley region.
“We will hunt down his killers as we commit to restoring peace in the Kerio Valley,” Ruto vowed.
“Rest in peace, Father.”
The Priest was shot dead by suspected bandits at the Tot area in Kerio Valley.
Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge confirmed the incident, saying the priest was on his way to a church service when the incident occurred.
Officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) responded to the scene and immediately launched a manhunt.
Police confirmed that the motive behind the killing is unrelated to cattle rustling or banditry.
“Preliminary investigation indicates that the incident is not in any way related to cattle rustling or banditry,” a statement by the National Police Service (NPS) said.
The officers have since arrested six suspects.
As the NPS condoled with the family, friends and the church, it condemned the killing.
The Service appealed to the local communities to remain calm and support the investigations.
NPS encouraged anyone with information that may assist the investigation to report it to the nearest police station or through our toll-free numbers: 999, 911, 112, and #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203).
“All information provided will be treated with utmost confidentiality.”
