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Gospel singer Rachel Wandeto hospitalised after petrol attack in Mwiki
17th May, 2026 11:53 AM
Kenyan gospel singer Rachel Wandeto is currently fighting for her life at Kenyatta National Hospital after she was attacked by unknown assailants in Mwiki, Kasarani sub-county, Nairobi.
According to a police report issued in a statement on Sunday, May 17, 2026, Wandeto sustained severe burn injuries after the attackers reportedly doused her with petrol before setting her ablaze.
The singer had previously gone viral after tattooing President William Ruto’s face and political slogans on her body.
Blood appeal
Following the incident, gospel musician and philanthropist Karangu Muraya has sent an emotional appeal, calling on Kenyans to donate blood to save her life ahead of a scheduled surgery.
“Hey friends, I have received an urgent call 
from KNH regarding our sister Rachel Wandeto, who was poured acid on by unknown people yesterday some minutes ago… She urgently needs blood transfusion and tomorrow by 8:00 am she will be taken to theater,” Muraya appealed.
Supporters have been urged to report to Kenyatta National Hospital to donate blood regardless of blood group as doctors continue battling to stabilise her condition.
“Please if in a position, let’s meet at KNH by 7:00 am we donate blood and save a life 
(any blood group),” he added.
“May Jehovah Rapha have mercy upon you, Rachael.”
Police on the attack
Reacting to the incident, the National Police Service (NPS) condemned the attack.
According to preliminary investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the attack may have been motivated by the victim’s political views, which reportedly angered her attackers. A specialised DCI team has since taken over the probe.
“In the first incident, which occurred yesterday, 16th May 2026, in the Mwiki area of Kasarani Sub-county, a woman is fighting for her life at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) after being doused with what is believed to be petrol and set alight,”
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack was linked to the woman’s political views, which allegedly displeased her attackers. The matter is being investigated by a specialised team from the DCI Headquarters,” NPS said in a report.
