UASIN GISHU, Kenya-Police in Kapseret are searching for a woman suspected of drugging and robbing three-time 1,500 metres world champion Asbel Kiprop at a club over the weekend.
Kapseret Police Commander Sephania Kamoren said Kiprop, who is also a Chief Inspector of Police, visited the club on Friday to watch football matches.
According to a statement Kiprop recorded with police, he approached the woman, who was sitting alone, and invited her to join him for drinks.
The pair later bought snacks and left the club for a nearby guest house shortly after 4am on Saturday.
Kiprop said he could not remember what happened afterwards and regained consciousness at about 3pm, when he found himself alone in the room.
After checking his finances, the former athlete discovered that Sh8,000 in cash was missing. He also said Sh35,000 had been withdrawn or transferred from his M-Pesa account, bringing the reported loss to Sh43,000.
“I cannot say what exactly happened. All I remember is that we got tired, bought some snacks and left for a nearby guest house,” Kiprop said.
He was taken to Elgon View Hospital after experiencing vomiting and weakness. He received treatment and was later discharged before reporting the incident at Langas Police Station.
Officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have taken over the case and are working to identify and arrest the woman.
Kamoren said Kiprop had also contacted Safaricom to obtain an M-Pesa statement showing how the money moved from his account. Investigators are expected to use the transaction records as part of efforts to trace the suspect.
“We are doing everything possible to catch her as soon as possible,” the police commander said.
Kiprop said he decided to speak publicly about the incident to warn young people and other members of the public about the dangers of interacting with strangers in entertainment establishments.
“My friend, I have decided to share my story to raise awareness and help the younger generation learn from my mistake and avoid such incidents in the future,” he said.
Police urged members of the public to remain alert while socialising and avoid leaving drinks unattended or accepting drinks from strangers.
Kiprop won the world 1,500m title three consecutive times—in 2011, 2013 and 2015. He was also awarded the 2008 Olympic title after the original winner was disqualified for doping.
