Tragedy Strikes as Olympic Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Dies After Being Set Ablaze by Ex-Boyfriend
In a shocking and devastating incident, Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died after being doused in petrol and set on fire by her former boyfriend in north-west Kenya.
Excel Magazine International reports that the 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner, who competed in the recent Paris Olympics, suffered extensive burns and succumbed to her injuries, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation.
Cheptegei’s death is the third case of violence against female athletes in Kenya since 2021, raising concerns about the increasing cases of gender-based violence in the country.
The authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, which allegedly occurred over a land dispute between Cheptegei and her ex-partner.
Uganda’s athletics federation has condemned the act, calling for justice, while Kenya’s Sports Minister has urged for urgent action to combat gender-based violence.
