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Catholic Priest Alloyce Bett Gunned Down – Was It Planned Hit?

 

Mystery as Catholic Priest Gunned Down by Bandits After Mass in Elgeyo Marakwet

Father Alloyce Cheruiyot Bett, a well-known Catholic priest from Tot Parish, was fatally shot by suspected bandits in Elgeyo Marakwet County on Thursday, May 22, 2025.

Attack in the Line of Duty

Father Bett had just concluded a Jumuiya (small Christian community) mass in Kakbiken village and was on his way back to his parish when he was ambushed. Witnesses say four bullets were fired in the attack—three missed, but one struck the priest in the neck, killing him on the spot.

Read also:“He Spoke Truth Without Fear”: Gachagua Reacts to Fr. John Maina’s Death

Police Confirm Incident, Launch Investigation

Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge confirmed the incident, stating that a manhunt was underway to apprehend the attackers. According to the National Police Service (NPS), six suspects have already been arrested in connection with the killing.

“The NPS condemns this heinous act and is committed to conducting thorough and expeditious investigations to bring those involved to justice,” read part of their official statement.

Priest Allegedly Mistaken for Police Informant

Although the motive behind the murder remains unclear, local reports suggest that the attackers may have suspected the priest of being a police informant due to an ongoing security operation in the region. Father Bett was stationed at St Lumumba Catholic Church in Tot Parish.

Governor Rotich Cuts Visit Short

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, who was in Sambirir Ward launching an agricultural training centre, cut short his engagements upon receiving news of the killing.

Second Clergy Killing in a Week

Tragically, this is the second priest to die under suspicious circumstances in a week. Father John Maina of Igwamiti Parish was discovered along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway with head injuries on May 15. He had reportedly been abducted days after hosting former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

These attacks highlight the growing insecurity in Kenya’s North Rift and raise alarm over the safety of clergy and civilians alike in volatile regions.

Also Read

Father Alloyce Cheruiyot Bett during a past mass before the fatal attack. Photo: Elgeyo Marakwet News

 

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