Two men received 35-year prison sentences for the murder of Ugandan Olympian Edward Kiplagat. The verdict came down on Tuesday in an Eldoret court, marking the end of a high-profile case that shocked the athletics world.
David Ekhai Lokere (left), and Peter Ushuru Khalumi, suspects in the killing of Kenyan-born Uganda athlete Edward Benjamin Kiplagat, when they were arraigned at Eldoret Law Courts in Uasin Gishu County .courtesy photo
David Ekai Lokere, 25, and Peter Ushuru Khalumi, 30, stood trial for killing Kiplagat, also known as Benjamin. The court found them guilty of the athlete’s murder on New Year’s Day 2024.
Kiplagat’s body turned up in a car in Eldoret, a town famous for producing world-class runners. The discovery sent shockwaves through Kenya’s athletic community.
The victim, Edward Kiplagat, made a name for himself as a top 3000m steeplechase runner. He represented Uganda in international competitions, including the Olympics.
Detective John Muthomi led the investigation. He praised the swift action of local police in arresting the suspects. “Our team worked tirelessly to gather evidence and bring the culprits to justice,” Muthomi said.
The motive behind the killing remains unclear. Prosecutors argued the attack was premeditated. They presented evidence of the defendants stalking Kiplagat in the days leading up to his death.
Defence lawyers claimed their clients were innocent. They argued the evidence was circumstantial. However, the judge found the prosecution’s case compelling.
In delivering the sentence, Judge Mary Kasango spoke of the need for deterrence. “This heinous crime has robbed the world of a talented athlete and role model,” she said. “The court must send a strong message that such acts will not go unpunished.”
The verdict brings some closure to Kiplagat’s family. His widow, Sarah Kiplagat, expressed relief at the outcome. “While nothing can bring Edward back, we feel justice has been served,” she told reporters outside the courthouse.
Athletics Kenya, the country’s governing body for track and field, welcomed the verdict. In a statement, they said: “This sends a clear message that the lives of our athletes matter. We hope this verdict will deter future crimes against sportspersons.”
The case highlighted the risks athletes face, even in their home countries. Many Kenyan and Ugandan runners train in the high-altitude areas around Eldoret. The region’s popularity among athletes makes it a hub for sports-related activities.
Local authorities have pledged to increase security measures for athletes training in the area. Eldoret’s police chief, James Mugera, announced plans for increased patrols. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of all athletes who come to train here,” he said.
The international athletics community also reacted to the verdict. Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics, said: “We are relieved to see justice served in this tragic case. Edward Kiplagat’s memory will live on in the sport he loved.”
Kiplagat’s coach, Peter Wanjiru, remembered him as a dedicated athlete with a bright future. “Edward was not just a talented runner, but a kind and humble person,” Wanjiru said. “His loss is felt deeply by all who knew him.”
The sentencing marks the end of a legal process that began shortly after Kiplagat’s body was found. Police arrested Lokere and Khalumi within days of the discovery. Their swift apprehension came after an intensive manhunt.
During the trial, prosecutors presented DNA evidence linking the defendants to the crime scene. Eyewitness testimony also played a crucial role in securing the conviction.
The case drew attention to the broader issue of athlete safety. Many runners from East Africa achieve fame and fortune through their sporting success. This sometimes makes them targets for criminal activity.
In response to the tragedy, several athletic organisations announced new safety initiatives. These include personal security training for athletes and improved monitoring of training areas.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation paid tribute to Kiplagat following the verdict. “Edward was a shining star of Ugandan athletics,” said federation president Dominic Otuchet. “His loss is a tragedy for our nation and the sport as a whole.”
As the news of the sentencing spread, tributes poured in from around the world. Fellow athletes, coaches, and fans shared memories of Kiplagat on social media. Many praised his friendly demeanour and dedication to the sport.
The 35-year sentences handed down to Lokere and Khalumi are among the harshest for such crimes in recent Kenyan history. Legal experts see this as a sign of the courts taking a tougher stance on violent crime.
While the verdict brings a measure of closure, questions remain about how to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Athletics Kenya has called for a national conversation on athlete safety and security.
As the athletics world continues to mourn the loss of Edward Kiplagat, his legacy lives on. Plans are underway for a memorial race in his honour, ensuring his contribution to the sport will not be forgotten.
The sentencing of Kiplagat’s killers marks the end of a dark chapter in East African athletics. However, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and protection of those who bring glory to their nations through sport