Medical staff at Mt Sinai Hospital transferring a Thika man to Kenyatta National Hospital after he set himself ablaze at his home on Sunday. [Photo: Thika Today]
A man in his 50s has set himself ablaze inside his apartment in Landless Estate Thika West Sub-County over what residents have termed as a 'longstanding domestic dispute'.
According to neighbours who witnessed the Sunday afternoon incidence, the man who was identified as Josphat Kanyi, had severally accused his wife of infidelity.
"He had vowed to kill himself when his wife’s behaviour and high-headedness became unbearable. We were attracted to the scene of the incident following smoke emanating from the apartment. We broke into the compound but the man said he didn't want any help," said Paul Kariuki a neighbour, as quoted by a local radio station.
The victim was rushed to Mt. Sinai Hospital in Makongeni Estate where doctors gave him first aid before referring him to Kenyatta National Hospital as his condition was severe.
"We received a call from the area community policing team and made arrangements to have him rushed to the hospital. The doctor says that he has about 41% burns and needs specialised treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital," said Edwin Kibe, a representative of the area MP Eng.
Patrick Wainaina, as quoted by Thika Today.
The area Assistant Chief, Mary Njaci, appealed to families to seek assistance from elders and counsellors when faced by such circumstances instead of resorting to life-threatening actions.