Three suspects have been charged in connection with the killing of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) pharmacist Robert Rotich, who was shot dead during a robbery at his home in Eldoret.
The suspects were arraigned in court and face multiple charges, including murder and several counts of robbery with violence. Prosecutors allege that the trio was part of a criminal gang responsible for a series of armed robberies targeting different victims within Eldoret and its environs.
According to court documents, the suspects were allegedly armed with an AK-47 rifle during the attacks. In the incident that led to Rotich’s death, the attackers are said to have stormed his home at night, terrorised his family while wielding a gun and other crude weapons, and demanded cash and valuables.
The prosecution told the court that Rotich was fatally shot during the robbery, while members of his family were left traumatised. Several items, including money and personal belongings, were reportedly stolen during the attack.
Investigators linked the suspects to other violent robberies in the area, saying similar methods were used, including the use of firearms to intimidate victims. Police say the arrests followed intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling armed criminal networks operating in Eldoret.
The suspects were remanded in custody pending further investigations and are expected back in court for mention and directions on the hearing of the case.
The killing of Rotich sparked public outrage, with colleagues and residents calling for swift justice and enhanced security to curb rising cases of armed robberies in the region.
