Rebecca Cheptegei, an Olympic distance runner, suffered a 75% burn to her body during the ordeal.
According to authorities, a Ugandan athlete who lives in Kenya was burned by her lover and is currently undergoing treatment for 75% of her burn injuries. Distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who placed 44th in the 2024 Paris Olympics marathon with a time of two hours, 32 minutes, and 14 seconds, is said to have been attacked in her home in western Trans Nzoia County.
During a fight on Sunday (September 1), Dickson Ndiema, Cheptegei’s lover, bought a can of gasoline, poured it on her, and lit her on fire, according to Trans Nzoia police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom.
Both Ndiema and herself are undergoing specialized care at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret City after Ndiema also suffered burn injuries.
Cheptegei’s parents said their daughter purchased land in Trans Nzoia so she could be close to the several sports training facilities in the county.
Before the fire started, the couple was heard fighting over the property where the house was erected, according to a report submitted by the local chief.
Local media sources report that Cheptegei’s condition is critical.
On social media, the Ugandan Athletics Federation (UAF) has addressed the issue.
“We regret to announce that our athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who competed in the Olympics, has suffered severe injuries and is hospitalized at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret,” the organization tweeted today (September 3).
People have subsequently offered their support for the Olympian as she heals from the traumatic incident.
“Wishing her a quick recovery,” one person wrote.
A second user expressed similar feelings, writing, “Sad to hear this. Wishing her a swift recovery.”
“There are no words. “Best wishes for her recovery,” said someone else.
A different person wrote, “This is so tragic.” I wish her a swift recovery and hope that she receives justice.
Sadly, Cheptegei’s case is not the first of its kind.
Damaris Muthee, a Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete, was discovered dead in 2022 after a post-mortem investigation revealed she had been strangled, while Agnes Tirop, a two-time World Athletics Championships bronze medalist, was found stabbed to death in 2021.
How to Use Baking Soda to Get Rid of Pests Naturally
Baking soda is a versatile and eco-friendly solution to combat pests like cockroaches, fleas, ants, moths, mice/rats, and spiders. It’s safe, non-toxic, and easy to use around the home. Here’s how you can effectively use baking soda to deal with each type of pest:
1. Cockroaches
Why It Works: Baking soda reacts with the acids in a cockroach’s stomach, killing them effectively.
How to Use:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar in a shallow dish or sprinkle the mixture in areas where cockroaches are active.
- The sugar attracts them, and the baking soda does the rest.
- Place the bait near cracks, under sinks, or behind appliances.
2. Fleas
Why It Works: Baking soda dehydrates fleas and their eggs.
How to Use:
- Sprinkle baking soda liberally on carpets, pet bedding, and upholstery.
- Use a stiff brush to work it into the fibers, then leave it for several hours or overnight.
- Vacuum thoroughly to remove fleas, eggs, and baking soda residue.
- Repeat weekly for effective flea control.
3. Ants
Why It Works: Baking soda interferes with ants’ digestive systems when ingested.
How to Use:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and powdered sugar.
- Sprinkle the mixture along ant trails, near entry points, and around the kitchen.
- The sugar lures ants, while the baking soda disrupts their metabolism.
4. Moths
Why It Works: Baking soda absorbs moisture and odors that attract moths.
How to Use:
- Place sachets filled with baking soda and a few drops of essential oil (like lavender) in closets, drawers, or storage boxes.
- For extra protection, sprinkle baking soda on carpets and vacuum after a few hours to deter moth larvae.
5. Mice and Rats
Why It Works: Baking soda produces gas that rodents cannot expel, which eventually kills them.
How to Use:
- Combine baking soda with peanut butter or flour to make a bait.
- Place small portions in areas where you’ve noticed rodent activity, such as along walls or in hidden corners.
6. Spiders
Why It Works: Baking soda acts as a natural deterrent for spiders.
How to Use:
- Sprinkle baking soda around the perimeter of rooms, under furniture, or in dark corners where spiders hide.
- Alternatively, mix baking soda with a few drops of peppermint essential oil for enhanced spider repellence.
Additional Tips:
- Always reapply baking soda after cleaning or vacuuming to maintain its effectiveness.
- Combine baking soda with natural deterrents like vinegar, essential oils, or diatomaceous earth for stronger pest control.
- Monitor pest activity to determine if repeated treatments are necessary.
By using baking soda, you can keep your home pest-free without resorting to harmful chemicals. It’s a simple, cost-effective, and natural solution!
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