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University Student Dies During KDF Recruitment Drive in Bungoma

A 22-year-old student from Masinde Muliro University collapsed and died on Thursday during a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise in Chwele, Bungoma County.

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According to authorities, the prospective recruit fainted while undergoing a mandatory physical fitness test. He was rushed to Chwele Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival at approximately noon.

Bungoma Sub-County Police Commander David Saina confirmed the incident. “The recruit fainted during the physical exercise stage and was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital,” Commander Saina stated.

The body of the deceased has been transferred to the Bungoma Referral Hospital mortuary pending an autopsy and further investigation.

The tragic event cast a shadow over the recruitment process, which also faced administrative challenges. Lieutenant Yegon, the officer overseeing the recruitment, noted that a significant number of applicants were disqualified due to discrepancies between their registered names and official birth certificates.

In light of the student’s death, Lieutenant Yegon also issued a stern warning to the youth. He urged young people aspiring to join the disciplined services to refrain from drug and substance abuse, stating that such habits severely compromise physical fitness and can have fatal consequences during rigorous testing.

“The youth looking to join the police service or army should stay away from drugs because it will mess with their fitness tests,” Lieutenant Yegon advised.

The KDF recruitment exercises are known for their physically demanding nature, designed to select only the most capable candidates. This incident has sparked renewed discussions about the preparation and health screening of applicants.