Sad end for family in search of 'abducted' former Elgeyo MCA

Former Kapyego MCA Benson Kiptire. His body was found dumped in a thicket. (File, Standard)

A two-day search by the family of former Elgeyo Marakwet’s Kapyego Ward Member of County Assembly Benson Kiptire who was allegedly abducted at Hawaii Estate on the outskirts of Eldoret town ended in heartbreak after a body believed to be his was found in Kamatira Forest, West Pokot County last evening.

It is alleged that four men in a Toyota Land Cruiser with civilian number plates drove to his shop on Friday around midday and identified themselves as policemen before driving off with him to an unknown destination.

Purity Ruto, wife of Kiptire, had earlier said her husband had called her a few minutes past noon informing her that police officers had taken him away.

“I cannot comprehend why the police arrested him because he is a law-abiding citizen,” said Mrs Ruto.

She said her family was going through a difficult time. “We have since visited several police stations to check if indeed was arrested. We wonder if it was police officers who took him away.”

Local leaders led by Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen had earlier mounted pressure on the Government to come out clean on Kiptire’s disappearance. 

“We do not want to speculate or link politics to this matter. We are leaving this to the police to investigate and hopefully we will find Kiptire,” said Murkomen.

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi has also sent his condolence message, remembering the former Kapyego MCA as a personal friend and loyal Kanu member.

Moi called on security agencies to investigate those behind the heinous act and bring them to the book.