Slain KDF officer laid to rest as another family awaits news on kin kidnapped by Al Shabaab in 2011

Mourners carry the casket bearing the body of Ramadhan Kibet Kitilit at his home in Uasin Gishu County, Friday. [PHOTO: PETER OCHIENG’/STANDARD]

Eldoret, Kenya: The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldier who was killed by Al Shabaab in Lamu has been buried.

Ramadhan Kibet Kitilit was among the two servicemen killed when Al Shabaab militants attacked a military camp last weekend.

He was the fourth born son of Silah Kitilit and was eulogised by mourners and colleagues as a devoted military officer who fought hard to protect his country.

His burial ceremony was conducted by Imams alongside military officers attached to the 5th Rifle at his home in Kimuchi village. Retired Major Kizito Chesesio, praised KDF for the work they are doing in Kenya and Somalia.

"Kibet died while protecting his country, he was a bread winner who loved his family. Let's support our officers because security belongs to each of us," he said.

But even as Kibet was laid to rest, the family of Jonathan Kangogo an army officer from Kapteren an adjacent village in the area, are still hopeful that he will be found.

Kangogo was among two other officers who were captured in 2011 by Al Shabaab while on duty in Wajir. Speaking after attending Kibet's burial, Kangogo's wife Rose Kigen said they are still waiting for his return.