Cheptegei, 33, was left fighting for her life in hospital for burns on 75 per cent of her body following a disagreement with her boyfriend outside their house on Monday 2 September, police said.

Cheptegei was receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city in Kenya, where she trained.

Trans Nzoia County Police Commander, Jeremiah ole Kosiom, said that Cheptegei’s boyfriend bought a jerry can of petrol, poured it on her and set her ablaze.

Cheptegei’s boyfriend also sustained burn wounds, although they are less severe, and is receiving treatment at the same hospital.