Kenya Forest Service has confirmed Mount Kenya’s oldest tree, King Muuru (King of Meru oak) was torched down by unknown arsonists.
Forest rangers are said to have been patrolling the vast cover when they noticed a burning tree.
“Someone with ill intentions purposely bought petrol and set this specific tree on fire. It is very unfortunate that someone would conceive such a heinous act.”
Conservationists are now demanding that the arson attack on the gigantic Meru oak tree known as King Muuru, which occurred on Sunday, be thoroughly investigated.
King Muuru is roughly 350 years old and is located about five kilometers from Meru town within Imenti forest.
Before its top broke off a year ago, the oak got its name from its age, towering height, and a massive trunk.
King Muuru’s base diameter is 2.7 meters, and hugging it requires seven adults linking hands in a circle.
