A woman, Susan Rioba, suffered severe chemical burns after being served what she believed was water, but contained acid, at a bar in Shanzu, Mombasa County, on January 15th. Attempts to seek justice have been complicated after the bar denied liability, blaming a third party and its waiters.

• A medical report confirmed Ms Rioba sustained superficial chemical burns to her mouth, tongue, throat, and thighs, with the liquid found on her clothing having a piercing smell consistent with hydrochloric acid.
• CCTV footage reportedly shows a waitress mistakenly swapping a bottle of water with a bottle of acid, which was then served to Ms Rioba.
• Balsons Bar and Restaurant, through their advocates, disclaimed responsibility, stating the acid belonged to a third party who allegedly assisted with hospital bills, and that the waiters were liable.
• The incident is under investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after being filed at Bamburi Police Station under OB number 32/13/01/2026.