The body of LGBTQ activist Edwin Kiprotich Kiptoo alias Chiloba's has been removed from the MTRH morgue in Eldoret ahead of the burial later in the day.

His family, including sisters and brothers, and his friends were at the morgue to collect the body ahead of the burial in Sergoit village in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

"We are now heading home straight for a family service then the burial ceremony will follow," his cousin Gladys Chiri said.

Most family members broke down in tears after viewing the body before it was taken to a hearse.

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A family member led the crowd into prayers at the morgue before the journey started.

Chiloba was found murdered and his body stashed in a metal box which was dumped near Kipkaren on the outskirts of Eldoret Town.

Five suspects, including three minors, are being held by the police in connection with the murder.

They include the prime suspect Jacktone Odhiambo who lived with Chiloba in Kimumu area along the Eldoret Iten Road.

The suspects will be taken back to court on January 31 after the completion of a forensic investigation into the murder

Three pairs of socks and other pieces of clothes were removed from the mouth of the deceased during a postmortem exercise carried out by Chief government pathologist Dr Johansen Oduor.

Dr Oduor explained that Chiloba died of a blockage of the mouth which caused him to lack oxygen.

In most cases within the Kalenjin community, bodies are taken home a day before burial but Chiloba will be interred on the same day.