Security reinforced in Kerio Valley after cleric’s murder

Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has assured residents, learners, teachers, government officers, and other workers in Marakwet East, Elgeiyo Marakwet County, of their safety, indicating that security has been beefed up in the troubled Kerio Valley.

This comes in the wake of rising tension after the brutal killing of Tot Catholic Parish Priest Fr. Allois Cheruiyot Bett by suspected bandits.

Speaking at a public baraza in Chesongoch, Lagat said security operations in the Kerio Valley have been reinforced and more personnel deployed to prevent further attacks.

“To all those working here but who are not originally from this area, teachers, to the leadership of KUPPET, I want to give you assurance,  doctors, contractors, and everyone who is not from this area we will give and provide adequate security,” he stated.

Lagat, told the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) that all necessary security measures are now in place and confirmed that the deployment of National Police Reservists (NPRs) has already started to boost patrols, community and schools protection.

Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat acknowledged the elders’ commitment but firmly stated that police investigations would proceed independently, thoroughly, and without delay.

“We will leave no stone unturned. It will not be business as usual,” he stated, underscoring the government’s resolve to dismantle the decades-long cycle of banditry and violence that has robbed families of their loved ones, destroyed property, and left entire communities living with deep scars, physical and emotional.

Lagat reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice, security, and the restoration of lasting peace in the region.

The call for lasting peace, anchored on justice, in the volatile Kerio Valley, an area long scarred by cattle rustling and banditry since independence, was strongly echoed by Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, where the slain priest hailed from, Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang, and Members of Parliament.

They noted that the brutal killing of Father Bett has reignited national calls for lasting peace and a decisive end to banditry and cattle rustling, which have plagued the region since independence.