Kenyan law enforcement has made significant strides in the investigation regarding the tragic death of Ugandan athlete Benjamin Kiplagat, with the recent apprehension of two individuals allegedly linked to the incident. The suspects, both believed to be in their thirties, were detained on the outskirts of Eldoret, as confirmed by local police commander Stephen Okal.
“These individuals, known to have troubled the public previously, are now in custody as part of our ongoing investigation,” Okal stated.
Kiplagat, a Kenyan-born athlete who represented Uganda in international competitions, including the 3,000m steeplechase at various global events, was found deceased in his vehicle on Saturday, bearing a severe knife wound to his neck.
While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, authorities disclosed that an altercation ensued after Kiplagat’s car collided with the suspects’ motorcycle, leading to the fatal stabbing.
“We suspect the collision might have triggered this violent encounter,” Okal remarked, shedding light on the sequence of events.
Notably, one of the detained individuals was found in possession of a knife believed to be the weapon used in the attack, according to police sources.
The incident has cast a shadow over Eldoret, known for its high-altitude training venues that attract numerous athletes. Kiplagat’s athletic career, spanning nearly two decades, boasted achievements such as winning silver at the 2008 World Junior Championships and bronze at the Africa Championships in 2012. He notably competed in the semi-finals of the 2012 London Olympics and participated in the Rio Games in 2016.
This tragic event echoes the shocking killing of Kenyan distance running sensation Agnes Tirop in October 2021. Tirop, just 25 years old, was fatally stabbed in her home at Iten, a training hub neighboring Eldoret.
As investigations continue, the apprehension of the suspects marks a significant development in the pursuit of justice for Benjamin Kiplagat’s untimely demise.
