Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a fiery warning to those behind the brutal murder of Catholic priest Rev. Fr. Alloys Cheruiyot Bett, vowing that the government will leave no stone unturned until the killers are brought to justice.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the priest’s family in Cheplasgei Village, Murkomen declared a full-scale manhunt for the assailants and pledged swift and severe punishment for what he termed “a heinous and calculated act meant to destabilize peace efforts.”
“We will make sure that we hand the harshest punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts,” Murkomen stated. “This government will not rest until every individual involved in this barbaric killing is tracked down, arrested, and prosecuted.”
A Cleric of Peace Silenced by Violence
Fr. Alloys, who served at St. Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish in the Diocese of Eldoret, was revered as a dedicated man of God and a passionate peace ambassador in the volatile Kerio Valley region. His untimely death has sent shockwaves across the religious and security sectors, especially coming at a time when banditry in the region had significantly reduced.
“His killing is a big blow. He was not just a priest — he was a peace champion. Targeting him shows the desperation and cowardice of the criminals we are dealing with,” the CS said.
A New Tactic by Cornered Bandits
Murkomen revealed that following a successful two-year security operation, traditional banditry activities had declined by over 50%. However, the pressure on criminals had forced them to resort to more sinister tactics, including targeted assassinations of peace actors and community leaders.
“They are now hiding in plain sight and terrorizing the very communities they used to prey on. This will not be tolerated,” he said, pointing to the recent murders of Bonface Ongote, Simon Njaga, and now Fr. Bett.
Tough Talk, Tougher Action
Accompanied by Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, Emgwen MP Josses Lelmengit, and senior security officers, the CS assured the community that this new wave of terror would not derail the mission to restore lasting peace in Kerio Valley.
“Let the killers of Fr. Alloys hear this clearly — you can run, but you cannot hide. We are coming for you,” Murkomen declared to the applause of local leaders and residents.
A Nation Mourns, But the War Continues
As the Diocese of Eldoret prepares to bury one of its most beloved priests, the government has promised that his death will not be in vain.
“We mourn him, but we will honor him by continuing his mission — and ensuring that justice is done.”
