Gospel Singer Jimmy Gait Assaulted and Robbed in Runda

 

Kenyan gospel singer Jimmy Gait was assaulted and robbed in broad daylight in Nairobi's upscale Runda estate on February 22, 2026, suffering deep cuts to his hands while trying to defend himself against unidentified attackers. 

The incident occurred around 10 a.m. when Gait, real name James Ngaita, was accosted by a group of robbers who overpowered him, stole his mobile phone and other valuables, and inflicted serious injuries to both hands with a sharp object. The attackers fled the scene on foot before security personnel or residents could intervene.

Gait was rushed to St. Teresa Hospital in Nairobi where he received emergency treatment for the deep lacerations. In a video recorded from his hospital bed and shared on his social media platforms the same afternoon, the singer appeared composed despite visible bandages on both hands. “I thank God I am alive,” Gait said in the clip. “They attacked me suddenly and I tried to defend myself. They cut my hands badly but I held on to my faith. I am stable now and resting. Please keep me in your prayers as I recover.” 

Fellow gospel artist DJ Mo quickly issued a public warning after the incident, alerting fans that the stolen phone was already being used for fraudulent messages. “Jimmy Gait has been robbed in Runda and his phone is in the wrong hands,” DJ Mo posted. “Please ignore any messages or calls from his number asking for money or favours. Pray for his quick recovery.” 

Police in Runda launched an immediate investigation, with officers collecting statements from witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage from nearby homes and estates. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has taken over the case, classifying it as a robbery with violence due to the use of a weapon and the infliction of grievous harm. No arrests had been made as of February 23, 2026, but detectives said they are pursuing leads and appealing for anyone with information to come forward. 

The attack has heightened concerns over security in Runda and other affluent Nairobi neighbourhoods that have seen a rise in daytime robberies targeting residents and visitors. Residents have complained of inadequate police patrols and slow response times despite the high presence of private security firms. One Runda homeowner who asked not to be named said: “We pay heavily for security but these incidents keep happening in broad daylight. Something has to change before someone loses their life.” 

Gait, known for faith-filled songs such as “Tenda Wema,” “Nisaidie” and “Nimekubali,” has built a career spanning more than two decades with a large following across East Africa. His music often emphasises hope, perseverance and divine protection—messages that resonated deeply with fans reacting to the assault. Messages of support flooded his social media pages, with many quoting lyrics from his songs to encourage him during recovery. 

“Tenda wema nchi, enda nayo,” one fan wrote, referencing his popular track. “You have always sung about doing good and going with it. Now the country is praying for you to recover fully.” 

The Kenya Gospel Musicians Association expressed solidarity. Association Secretary-General Mary Wambui said: “Jimmy Gait is not just a singer; he is a brother to many of us in the industry. We are praying for his healing and for swift justice. This attack is a wake-up call for everyone—crime does not respect status or location.” 

Gait’s family has requested privacy as he recuperates, but confirmed he is stable, responding well to treatment and expected to make a full recovery. Doctors have advised rest and limited movement of his hands for several weeks to allow proper healing of the tendons and nerves affected by the cuts. 

The incident has reignited public debate on urban insecurity in Nairobi, with calls for increased police visibility, better street lighting and stronger collaboration between private security firms and law enforcement. Several MPs from Nairobi constituencies have promised to raise the matter in Parliament and push for enhanced security measures in residential areas. 

As Gait rests and begins rehabilitation, fans and colleagues continue to send messages of love and prayers, turning what began as a violent crime into a moment of collective solidarity for one of Kenya’s most beloved gospel voices.