A gospel artist is fighting for her life at Kenyatta National Hospital after she was set on fire in a petrol attack in Mwiki, Nairobi, in an incident believed to be linked to her political views and a tattoo associated with President William Ruto.
The woman, who had drawn public attention after tattooing President Ruto’s image and political messaging on her body, was attacked on May 16 by unknown assailants who poured petrol on her before setting her ablaze.
In a statement on March 17, police said she sustained severe burns and was initially treated at a nearby hospital before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital due to the extent of her injuries.
She remains in critical condition.
Preliminary investigations suggest the attack may have been triggered by her support for Ruto, with detectives probing claims that the suspects targeted her over beliefs she had received benefits because of her public support.
DCI Takes Over Ruto Tattoo Attack Investigations
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has now assigned a specialized team to take over the case, signaling the seriousness of the incident and the need for a thorough probe.
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Police say the team is working to identify and arrest those responsible, with investigators piecing together events leading up to the attack. Authorities have not confirmed any arrests so far.
The National Police Service has condemned the incident, describing it as a serious crime that threatens public safety and the rule of law.
The authority said no form of violence, including acts driven by political differences, will be tolerated.
They have urged the public to remain calm and to avoid taking the law into their own hands, warning that those found responsible will face the full force of the law.
The case has drawn attention because of the nature of the attack and the possible motive behind it, with police warning against a growing trend of intolerance among members of the public.
Separate Assaults on Officers
The police statement also highlighted two other incidents reported within the same period, involving attacks on traffic officers in different parts of Nairobi.
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In Embakasi, a motorist was captured on video confronting and assaulting a traffic police officer on duty.
NPS confirmed that the suspect has been identified and that legal action is underway.
In Lang’ata, a Metro Shuttle crew was arrested after attacking a traffic officer who was carrying out enforcement duties. The vehicle involved in the incident has since been impounded.
Police praised the officers involved for remaining calm and professional despite the attacks, saying such discipline is important in maintaining public trust.
The National Police Service said violence against police officers is unacceptable and weakens institutions meant to protect citizens.
The service called on members of the public to respect law enforcement officers and cooperate with them.
“NPS condemns all three incidents in the strongest possible terms. Political intolerance has no place in competitive politics, our democracy, or our laws. Furthermore, any attack, whether verbal, physical, or otherwise, against a police officer is an affront to the rule of law and undermines the integrity and dignity of the National Police Service. Such attacks are an assault on our collective freedom,” read part of the statement by the NPS.
The DCI is now appealing to the public to share any information that could help in the investigations.
Members of the public can report to the nearest police station or use hotlines such as 999 and 911.
The police have assured that all cases are being taken seriously and that justice will be pursued for the victims.
They have also urged Kenyans to resolve disputes peacefully and to uphold respect for human life.
The service said it remains committed to enforcing the law while protecting the rights of all individuals.
