OCS Taken to Hospital After Attempted Tree-Hugging Challenge at Sossiot Police Station
Drama was witnessed on Tuesday, January 20, at Sossiot Police Station after the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), Kennedy Wanjala, attempted to take part in the now popular tree-hugging challenge.
According to reports from the station, the situation quickly drew attention from both police officers and members of the public.
Fellow officers were forced to intervene and disengage Wanjala from the tree after a large crowd gathered outside the station to watch what was unfolding. The growing crowd raised concerns about security and the OCS’s well-being.
An official police report later confirmed that officers at the station alerted the Sub-County Criminal Investigations Officer (SCCIO) in Belgut about the unusual incident. Following the report, senior police officers visited the station to assess the situation and speak directly with the OCS.
During the interview, senior officers noted that Wanjala appeared emotionally distressed and unsettled. After a brief discussion, they decided that he required immediate medical attention. He was then referred to hospital for further assessment and care.
“He was disengaged from the tree and escorted away after attracting a large number of members of the public,” the police report stated.
“After being talked to, he appeared depressed and requires medical attention,” the report added.
Tree-Hugging Challenge Gains Popularity Nationwide
The tree-hugging challenge has been spreading rapidly across the country, with many Kenyans taking part for different personal, social, and awareness-related reasons. The trend was inspired by environmental activist Truphena Muthoni, who gained national attention after completing a 72-hour tree-hugging initiative in December last year.
Truphena completed the challenge on December 11, successfully breaking her previous 48-hour record. Her effort was aimed at promoting environmental conservation and climate awareness, and it earned her widespread praise and recognition across the country.
Since then, several individuals have attempted to outdo the record or use the challenge to support different causes. However, not all attempts have ended safely.
In early January, a Murang’a-based pastor, Jimmy Irungu, collapsed on Thursday, January 8, after hugging a tree for 79 hours and 40 minutes. He fell just 20 minutes short of his 80-hour target. The pastor was taking part in the challenge as part of a cancer awareness campaign and was rushed to hospital after collapsing.
In another case, a young man from Limuru in Kiambu County attempted the challenge in an effort to raise funds for his Grade 10 brother’s education. His attempt also attracted public attention and support.
Ministry of Health Issues Warning
As the challenge continues to gain momentum, the Ministry of Health has raised serious concerns over the health risks associated with prolonged tree hugging.
Speaking on Thursday, January 15, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni warned that staying in one position for extended periods without proper medical supervision can be dangerous.
She emphasized that anyone planning to take part in the challenge should first undergo a full medical check-up.
The PS revealed that the Ministry has already recorded several cases of people collapsing and being rushed to hospital after participating in prolonged tree-hugging sessions without prior medical assessment.
“We are not stopping anyone from participating in the tree-hugging challenge,” Muthoni said. “However, you must first undergo a medical check-up to ensure that you are medically fit.”
Health officials continue to urge the public to prioritize safety and seek professional medical advice before attempting physically demanding endurance challenges.
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