Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei is currently undergoing treatment for burns covering 75 percent of her body after a horrific incident where she was set on fire by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema. The disturbing event took place at Cheptegei’s home in Kenya, with reports indicating that Ndiema bought petrol and poured it on her before setting her ablaze during a heated argument.
The local police commander, Jeremiah ole Kosiom, confirmed the details of the incident, stating that the couple was heard quarreling outside their house before the violent act took place. Both Cheptegei and Ndiema sustained burns and are currently receiving medical care at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
This tragic incident occurred shortly after Cheptegei’s participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she competed as a long-distance and marathon runner for Uganda, finishing in 44th place. The motive behind the attack seems to stem from a dispute over land that Cheptegei’s house was built on, as reported by the Associated Press.
Following the incident, neighbors intervened to put out the fire and rushed both Cheptegei and Ndiema to the hospital for treatment. Evidence from the scene, including a jerrican of petrol, a bag, a black marvin, and a burnt mobile phone, was collected for forensic analysis.
Prior to her Olympic appearance, Cheptegei had a successful career in various marathons, securing her spot in the Paris Olympics after finishing fourth in the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon in 2022. She has been competing professionally since 2010, with notable achievements such as winning the Kampala 10,000-meter race in Uganda.
This tragic event involving Cheptegei follows the death of another Ugandan athlete, Benjamin Kiplagat, who was stabbed to death in Eldoret at the age of 34. Kiplagat, who competed in the 2012 London Olympics, was found dead in his car with multiple stab wounds. Two suspects were arrested in connection with his murder earlier this year.
In light of these distressing events, it is essential to raise awareness about domestic violence and provide support to those in need. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential assistance.
