OCS Collapses After Attempting Tree-Hugging Challenge
On Tuesday, January 20, a surprising scene unfolded at the Sossiot Police Station when Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Kennedy Wanjala decided to take on the well-known tree-hugging challenge.
Witnesses reported that as Wanjala engaged in this unusual activity, a crowd of curious onlookers began to gather, prompting other officers at the station to step in and pull him away from the situation.
An official police report later revealed that the Sub-County Criminal Investigations Officer (SCCIO) in Belgut was notified about the incident. Senior officers arrived at the station to speak with Wanjala, who appeared to be experiencing emotional distress. Following their conversation, they recommended that he seek medical attention.
“He was disengaged from the tree and escorted away after attracting a large number of members of the public,” the report read.
“After being talked to, he appeared depressed and requires medical attention,” it added.
Inspired by Truphena Muthoni’s incredible 72-hour tree-hugging initiative, the tree-hugging challenge has really taken off across the country, with many Kenyans joining in for various reasons.
Truphena made headlines when she completed her tree-hugging feat on December 11 last year, raising awareness about environmental issues and breaking her own previous record of 48 hours, which earned her national recognition.
Just weeks later, Pastor Jimmy Irungu from Murang’a collapsed on the morning of Thursday, January 8, just 20 minutes shy of his ambitious 80-hour goal, after hugging a tree for an impressive 79 hours and 40 minutes as part of a cancer awareness campaign.
In Limuru, Kiambu County, another young man took on the challenge to help raise funds for his brother in Grade 10.
However, as the challenge gains popularity, the Ministry of Health has issued a warning about the serious health risks associated with prolonged tree hugging.
On Thursday, January 15, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni emphasized the importance of getting a medical check-up before attempting the challenge to ensure participants are in good health.
She also shared that the Ministry has seen several cases of individuals collapsing and needing urgent medical attention after engaging in extended tree hugging without prior health assessments.
“We are not stopping anyone from participating in the tree-hugging challenge, but you must first undergo a medical checkup to ensure that you are medically fit,” the PS said.
OCS Collapses After Attempting Tree-Hugging Challenge
