Tragic Incident | Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Set On Fire By Boyfriend
Tragic Incident | Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Set On Fire By Boyfriend
0
0
By Jessica Card
In a shocking and tragic incident, Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei has been severely injured after being set on fire by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema. The attack occurred on September 1, 2024, at Cheptegei’s home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya.
According to police reports, the couple had an argument over land that Cheptegei had purchased in the region. During the altercation, Ndiema allegedly poured petrol on Cheptegei and set her ablaze. Neighbors quickly intervened, extinguishing the flames and rushing both Cheptegei and Ndiema to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for treatment². Cheptegei sustained burns covering 75% of her body and is currently in critical condition.
Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, is a renowned distance runner who competed in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing in 44th place. She moved to Trans Nzoia County to be closer to athletic training centers and had recently purchased land in the area. Cheptegei’s athletic achievements include winning gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2022.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation expressed deep regret over the incident, highlighting the severity of Cheptegei’s injuries. This attack has also brought attention to the ongoing issue of gender-based violence in the region. A report by the Kenyan Bureau of National Statistics found that 34% of women in Kenya have experienced physical violence since the age of 15.
This incident is part of a disturbing trend of violence against female athletes in East Africa. In recent years, several high-profile cases have emerged, including the murder of record-breaking runner Agnes Tirop in 2021. These incidents underscore the urgent need for stronger measures to protect women from domestic violence and ensure their safety.
Rebecca Cheptegei’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers many women face, even those who have achieved international acclaim. As she fights for her life, the sports community and advocates for women’s rights are calling for justice and increased efforts to combat gender-based violence.
Our thoughts are with Rebecca Cheptegei and her family during this difficult time.
About The Author
1 thought on “Tragic Incident | Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Set On Fire By Boyfriend”