Elgeyo Marakwet County was gripped by tension after the decomposing body of Simon Cheboi, a dentist at Iten Referral Hospital, was discovered in a forest in Keiyo North constituency. The tragic discovery, made on Friday at 7:30 PM, came nearly a week after Cheboi was reported missing.
Following the grim find, irate residents stormed and set ablaze the house of the main suspect, who was last seen with the deceased before his disappearance. Their actions underscored growing frustrations over unresolved cases of insecurity and a demand for swift justice.
Keiyo North Deputy Commissioner Julius Maiyo confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect had been apprehended to assist law enforcement officers in their investigations.
“The police are following credible leads, and all those involved in the murder will be brought to justice,” Maiyo assured the public.
Despite the arrest, enraged residents took matters into their own hands, torching the suspect’s home in an apparent act of retribution. However, Commissioner Maiyo strongly discouraged such actions, urging the community to allow law enforcement officers to handle the matter professionally.
“Taking the law into your own hands only complicates matters. I urge residents to remain calm and let the police execute their mandate,” he said.
The incident has sparked heightened concerns over security in the region, with many residents calling on authorities to intensify efforts in curbing crime. The killing of Dr. Cheboi has particularly sent shockwaves through the community, given his role as a medical professional serving at a key health facility in the area.
As police continue with their investigations, forensic experts are expected to conduct a post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death. Authorities have also assured the public that all those involved in the heinous act will face legal consequences.
Meanwhile, security personnel have been deployed in the area to prevent any further unrest as investigators work tirelessly to uncover the full details of the case. The community, still in shock, remains hopeful that justice for the late Dr. Cheboi will be served swiftly and fairly.