Nairobi: Gospel Singer Hospitalised After Alleged Acid Attack
A 24-year-old gospel artiste and member of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church is fighting for her life following a brutal acid attack on Ngong Road in Nairobi, in an incident police believe may be linked to a domestic dispute.
The victim, Mary Clare, is a member of Redemption Ministers Kenya, a choir group affiliated with the SDA Mabera Main Church in Migori County. Authorities say she was attacked in broad daylight while reportedly heading home, sparking public outrage and renewed concern over gender-based violence.
According to witnesses, a man believed to have been hired by Clare’s estranged boyfriend approached her and hurled a corrosive substance at her face and body, causing severe burns. The assault occurred in full view of passersby, some of whom rushed to assist her as the suspect attempted to flee.
One of the first responders, her friend Sarah Watiri, sustained injuries while trying to help. She recounted the horrifying moments following the attack.
“I did not see my clothes melting. What I saw was Clare’s clothes. The next thing I heard was ‘Sarah, help me, I am dying. Give me some water,’” Watiri said, describing the panic and confusion at the scene.
Members of the public pursued the alleged attacker and cornered him a short distance away. Witnesses reported that an enraged mob assaulted the suspect before police intervened. During the confrontation, the man allegedly confessed that he had been sent by Clare’s former partner.
Police officers later rescued the suspect from the mob and took him into custody at Kibera Police Station. Investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the attack and the identity of those behind it.
Authorities confirmed that she had previously reported an assault involving the suspect on November 25, 2025, raising questions about whether earlier intervention might have prevented the incident.
The attack has drawn national attention, including from former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who has been vocal on cases involving gender-based violence. In a video statement, he said the matter had been brought to his attention by an anonymous source and pledged support for the victim.
“Clare is currently in critical condition at KNH. Disturbingly, she had reported death threats in November last year, but no action was taken. We will work with authorities to ensure justice is served. All those responsible must be held accountable,” Sonko said.
He also announced a reward of KSh 50,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspected mastermind behind the attack.
Efforts by journalists to obtain a comment from Clare’s family were unsuccessful as of publication time, with relatives reportedly focused on her medical care.
Separately, an online video purportedly showed a masked man being arrested while riding a motorbike, believed by some to be Clare’s ex-boyfriend. In the footage, the suspect declined to provide his identity to officers.
“Why can’t we go to the station?” he reportedly said when asked to remove his mask and identify himself. Authorities have not confirmed whether the individual in the video is connected to the attack.
As investigations continue, Kenyans across social media have expressed shock and solidarity with the young singer, with many calling for swift justice and improved protection for victims who report threats.
Police have urged anyone with credible information to come forward as they pursue additional suspects believed to be involved in planning the assault.
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Nairobi: Gospel Singer Hospitalised After Alleged Acid Attack
