A chilling murder case has sent shockwaves through the quiet town of Kabartonjo in Baringo County after the body of a young boda boda rider who disappeared under mysterious circumstances was discovered clumsily buried in a remote thicket.
Kevin Kibichii Togoch, a well-known rider in the town of Kabarnet, had been missing since Thursday, April 17. His disappearance had puzzled family and friends who knew him as a hardworking and reserved individual. The community’s worst fears were confirmed five days later on Monday, April 21, when his decomposing body was discovered in a dense valley bush on the outskirts of Kabartonjo.
Police investigations revealed that Kevin had been lured to his death by an individual posing as a client. The assailant allegedly called Kevin, requesting a ride, and without suspecting any foul play, Kevin accepted the job. However, what seemed like a normal workday turned into a deadly trap.
Authorities describe the murder as both cold-blooded and calculated. The turning point in the investigation came when officers apprehended a suspect in Eldoret who was found in possession of Kevin’s stolen motorcycle. Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and led officers to the location where he had buried the body.
According to the police, the suspect admitted to having killed Kevin and hiding his body in the thicket in an attempt to cover up the crime. He was transported back to Baringo County, where he directed law enforcement to the shallow grave.
The suspect’s confession has raised concerns that he may be involved in a broader pattern of violent crimes targeting boda boda riders. Authorities believe he could be part of a criminal network or a repeat offender who preys on riders by pretending to be a client. Investigators are now looking into other similar cases in the region to determine if the suspect has any links to them.
The discovery of Kevin’s body has left the Kabartonjo community in mourning. His colleagues in the boda boda sector have called for swift justice and stronger security measures to protect riders who often operate in risky areas and during late hours. Many expressed fears for their own safety, saying they face constant threats from criminals who use deceit to strike.
Kevin’s remains were taken to the Baringo County Referral Hospital mortuary as police continue their investigation. Detectives are pursuing leads to establish whether the suspect acted alone or had accomplices. More arrests may be on the horizon as the probe deepens.
The case underscores the growing dangers faced by boda boda operators across Kenya. While they serve as a vital mode of transport for millions, many riders work in high-risk environments with limited protection and few security safeguards.
Kevin’s death is a tragic reminder of the vulnerabilities within this sector. As the town comes to terms with the loss of a young man described as diligent and peaceful, the hope remains that justice will be served, and that steps will be taken to ensure other riders do not meet a similar fate.
For now, a family is left to mourn, and a community is left grappling with the haunting silence of a ride that ended in betrayal and death.
