Many people are eager to know the latest updates on Rebecca Cheptegei’s condition after she was recently attacked by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema. The incident has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the ongoing issue of domestic violence against women.
Here’s a detailed look at what happened, Cheptegei’s current condition, and the broader implications of this alarming trend.
Rebecca Cheptegei attacked by her boyfriend Dickson Ndiema
Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei’s boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, brutally attacked her and set her on fire. The incident occurred in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya.
According to police, Ndiema allegedly purchased a five-liter jerry can of petrol, poured it over Cheptegei, and set her ablaze during a heated argument. Local media reported that neighbors intervened to rescue Cheptegei and extinguish the fire. Cheptegei and Ndiema sustained severe burns and are receiving specialized treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
Cheptegei recently competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she finished 44th in the women’s marathon. She is now battling severe injuries, with burns covering 75% of her body. Her parents mentioned that she had relocated to Trans Nzoia to be closer to the region’s athletic training centers (via NBC).
The attack has sparked outrage, with Ugandan Olympic Committee President Donald Rukare condemning the act and calling for an end to violence against women. He expressed support for Cheptegei and urged the public to unite against such acts of brutality.
This assault follows the tragic deaths of other athletes in the region. In 2022, someone strangled Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Damaris Muthee. In 2023, authorities found Ugandan steeplechaser Benjamin Kiplagat dead with stab wounds (via ABC).
As Cheptegei fights for recovery, her story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by athletes and women in the region.
