Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died after she was severely burned by her partner over a land dispute.
The marathon runner, 33, was taken to hospital in Kenya after she was doused in petrol by her boyfriend, police said.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation posted on X: “We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend.
“May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women.
“This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom said on Monday Cheptegei’s boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, bought a can of petrol, poured it on her and set her on fire during a disagreement on Sunday.
Ms Cheptegei recently competed in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she finished 44th.
According to the Paris Olympics website, she qualified for her Olympic debut in the marathon after setting a personal best of 2.22.47 at the Abu Dhabi Marathon in December 2022.
She also finished 14th in the marathon at the 2023 World Championships.
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Source : Sky News
