This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
On September 17, 2019, Dan Matagaya's life took a devastating turn when his wife attacked him with sulphuric acid in Kisii town. The police officer narrates a painful story of his life, the agony, and pain he endured after the attack.
Matagaya underwent 20 surgeries to ensure the burns were properly healed and to breathe properly. He recalls the moment a doctor at Kenyatta National Hospital told him he doubted whether he would live, as his nose was blocked, and he couldn't breathe properly.
Matagaya's wife timed him while he was asleep and poured sulphuric acid solution on his face. Speaking to BBC Media, Matagaya revealed that his wife not only poured the solution on his face but also made sure the floor was wet and connected to a power source, indicating her intention to kill him.
Without access to water to cool his skin, the acid solution destroyed his face and skin, prompting him to opt for multiple surgeries. Neighbours who heard him screaming came to his rescue and took him to Hema Hospital in Kisii Town, where he received first aid and managed to see.
However, Hema Hospital couldn't manage his condition, and he was transferred to Kakamega Country Hospital, where he lost his sight again. Matagaya was later transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he underwent a long period of surgeries due to the burns taking longer to heal.
