A third-year student at Multimedia University is fighting for his life at a Nairobi hospital after he was allegedly scalded with hot water by his girlfriend in a shocking incident that occurred on the eve of Valentine’s Day in Umoja 1 Estate.
The victim, identified as Steve Godia, claims the attack followed a confrontation at his rented house over suspicions that he was still in contact with an ex-girlfriend.
According to Steve, what was meant to be a calm discussion to resolve differences in their relationship quickly turned violent. He alleges that his girlfriend, whom he says he has known for three years, became enraged during the exchange.
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“It was my girlfriend who burnt me because she felt that my explanation about my ex-girlfriend was not enough. Maybe when I spoke, she felt I was being disrespectful,” Godia said from his hospital bed.
He claims that in the middle of the night, the suspect boiled water and poured it onto his face, leaving him with severe burn injuries. He says the pain was immediate and overwhelming.
“The water was superheated to high temperatures. The next morning, my eyes were swollen, my entire face was swollen, and I could not see anything. The wounds were aching,” he recounted.
Moments after the alleged attack, the suspect reportedly fled the scene. CCTV footage from the premises is said to have captured a woman believed to be the suspect leaving shortly after the incident.
Steve has identified the woman as Gladwell Kagai. He further alleges that as he lay in pain, she took advantage of his condition, stealing two of his mobile phones and transferring more than Ksh 300,000 from his account.
“I realised she had stolen my two phones and transferred all the money I had. I had Ksh 318,000, and she left me with only Ksh 7. Though police say they are on the case, I feel like they are slow. I want the suspect to be arrested and presented in court,” he added.
The matter was reported to police, and investigations are ongoing. However, nearly ten days after the incident, the suspect remains at large, leaving Steve and his family anxious as they seek justice.
Beyond the physical and emotional trauma, the attack has also disrupted his academic life. The Multimedia University student says he has missed examinations due to his hospitalisation.
Police have yet to issue an official statement on the progress of the investigations.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over domestic violence cases, with calls for swift action to ensure accountability and protection for victims, regardless of gender.