Eldoret, Kenya In a shocking and disturbing incident, Ugandan Olympic distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei was set on fire by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at her residence in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya.
According to Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom, Cheptegei suffered severe burns covering 75% of her body and is currently receiving specialized treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city. Ndiema also sustained burn wounds in the incident.
Cheptegei, 44th-place finisher in the 2024 Paris Olympics, had relocated to Trans Nzoia County to be near the region’s renowned athletic training centers. Her parents stated that she had invested in land in the area to facilitate her training.
The attack allegedly stemmed from a disagreement over the ownership of the land where the house was built. Local reports indicate that the couple was heard fighting before the fire started.
This tragic incident follows a disturbing trend of violence against athletes in Kenya and Uganda.
In 2023, Ugandan Olympic runner Benjamin Kiplagat was found dead with stab wounds, and in 2022, Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Damaris Muthee was found strangled.
Investigation and Reactions
Police have launched an investigation into the attack, and Ndiema is expected to face charges once he recovers from his injuries.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation and the International Olympic Committee have condemned the attack, offering support to Cheptegei and her family.
“Rebecca’s bravery on the track is matched only by her resilience in the face of this horrific attack,” said Uganda Athletics Federation President Moses Mwanga. “We demand justice and support for our athletes.”
Community Response
The athletic community has rallied around Cheptegei, offering prayers and support for her recovery.
“We are devastated but grateful she’s receiving the best care possible,” said Cheptegei’s mother.
The incident has sparked concerns about athlete safety and gender-based violence in Kenya and Uganda.
Related Stories:
– Ugandan Olympic Runner Benjamin Kiplagat Found Dead (2023)
– Kenyan-Born Bahraini Athlete Damaris Muthee’s Death Ruled as Strangulation (2022)
Sources: Associated Press (AP)
