Baringo County is reeling from shock and outrage following the tragic death of 26-year-old Augustine Kipng’etich, a boda boda rider who was allegedly shot and beaten by Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officers. The three officers involved Robert Ngilimo, Hillary Bett, and McDonald Wafula were initially charged with assault but will now face fresh murder charges on Monday after Kipng’etich succumbed to his injuries.
The incident occurred when Kipng’etich was called to assist in ferrying fencing posts from Narasha Forest. His family, who live near the forest, recounted hearing a gunshot before rushing to the scene, only to find their son critically injured.
Kipng’etich’s father, Paul Rotich, described the harrowing moment he discovered his son: “He was called to work in the forest, and when we got there, we found that they had beaten my son to death.” His mother, Jane Rotich, expressed her devastation, stating that when she arrived, officers prevented her from reaching her son. “They blocked me with guns, but when I finally saw him, he was on the verge of death,” she said.
After suffering a gunshot wound to his right leg and severe physical assault, Kipng’etich was taken to Eldama Ravine Sub-County Hospital before being transferred to Nakuru Referral Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. Unfortunately, he passed away the following day, leaving behind his young widow, Doreen Chebich, and their children.
Chebich, only 21 years old, lamented the devastating loss of her husband. “My husband was a caring person. The officers even told me we could all die. I have young children—what will I do now?” she cried.
The officers, who had initially been charged with assault, will be arraigned afresh for murder. The Kenya Forest Service condemned the incident, with Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, stating: “We do not condone such actions. It is an unfortunate incident.”
Local leaders, including Marakwet East MP Timothy Toroitich, have demanded justice. “KFS officers should never take the law into their hands. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” he asserted.
As Kipng’etich’s family mourns their loss, they are calling for full justice against the officers responsible. The tragedy underscores concerns about the excessive use of force by law enforcement officers in Kenya, with calls for accountability growing louder.
