Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed to intensify the crackdown on banditry following the killing of Rev. Fr Alloys Cheruiyot Bett, a Catholic priest known for his peacebuilding efforts in the troubled Kerio Valley region.
Speaking during the opening of a new Civil Registration Office in Kobujoi, Aldai Constituency, CS Murkomen condemned the murder, describing it as a cowardly act by criminals attempting to sabotage the government’s ongoing security operations.
“We have lost 22 people to banditry this year. The government will not tolerate this any longer. These are not warriors—they are children under 18 calling themselves commanders and killing innocent people like Fr Alloys, who didn’t even own a sheep,” said Murkomen. “Surrender your weapons or we will come for you. We will forcefully go after anyone carrying a gun.”
The Cabinet Secretary noted that while security operations in the Kerio Valley have led to a 50% reduction in banditry cases compared to 2024, isolated criminal attacks persist, especially targeting peace actors.
“The murder of Fr Alloys, alongside others like Bonface Ongote and Simon Njaga, reflects a new strategy by bandits to spread fear. But we are determined to see this through,” he said.
Fr Alloys, who was serving at St Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish under the Eldoret Diocese, was described as a committed servant of God who went beyond the pulpit to promote peace.
Murkomen visited the family of the slain priest in Cheplasgei Village to offer his condolences.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang who was present termed the killing as a calculated attempt to silence voices advocating for justice. “We will not be intimidated. Let us continue focusing on eliminating all bandits in the Kerio Valley. Do not backtrack,” he said.
The second-term governor said the late priest was more than a spiritual leader. He was a symbol of hope, compassion, and unity. His tireless efforts in championing peace in the Kerio Valley region earned him widespread admiration and respect. He stood firm as a voice of reconciliation and tirelessly advocated for peaceful coexistence.
“Beyond his pastoral mission, Fr Alloys had a special place in his heart for children. He was a mentor and father figure to many young people, inspiring them to value education as a tool for personal transformation and community development. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his ministry, peacebuilding efforts, and commitment to social justice,” he stated.
Tinderet MP Julius Melly called for swift justice, urging security agencies to ensure the killers of Fr Alloys are apprehended. “The slain priest was doing the Lord’s work. The government must act with resolve,” Melly said.
The newly inaugurated Nandi South Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner’s Office, which had been idle for over 15 years, was also revived and now houses multiple government departments under one roof.
The facility will enhance access to critical civil documentation services such as the timely registration of birth and death certificates thereby improving service delivery
As the region grieves the loss of Fr Alloys, leaders continue to rally behind the government’s efforts to restore peace and punish those behind the wave of violence in the Kerio Valley.
By Linet Wafula
