Police arrest six after fatal shooting of Father Bett in Baringo

Reverend Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett. [File, Standard]

Six people have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Reverend Father Allois Cheruiyot Bett in Kabartile Village, Baringo County, according to the National Police Service.

The shooting occurred in Mokoro Location, Kakiptul Sub-Location, where Father Bett, a priest at St Matthias Mulumba Tot Parish, was attacked by armed assailants.

Elgeyo Marakwet police commander Peter Mulinge said the priest had parked his vehicle along the Chesongoch-Tot-Liter road and walked to the venue of the afternoon sermon.

But the assailants, who had laid an ambush, shot and killed the St Mulumba Catholic Church cleric on the spot.

General Service Unit officers responded to the scene and arrested the suspects, who are now in custody.

Police said the shooting was not linked to cattle rustling or banditry, which are common in the area.

"This was a targeted attack that has nothing to do with local security operations," said National Police Service spokesperson Muchiki Nyaga.

Nyaga added that investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend others involved.

"We urge members of the public to remain calm and to continue with their daily activities without fear," said Nyaga.

He also appealed to the public to report any information that could aid the investigation to the nearest police station or through toll-free lines 999, 911, 112 and 0800 722 203.

The National Police Service condemned the killing and extended condolences to the family, friends and parishioners of Father Bett.

The incident comes amid efforts by security agencies to address violence and insecurity in parts of Baringo.

Authorities said more updates would be provided as investigations progress.