Authorities in Bomet County have arrested the owner of a local hotel after discovering that he had been unlawfully serving flamingo meat to unsuspecting customers.
The shocking revelation came during an inspection led by public health officers and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) personnel following a tip-off from concerned residents.
According to officials, the raid uncovered large quantities of flamingo meat stored in freezers at the establishment, alongside evidence showing that the delicacy had been sold to clients without their knowledge.
Health officers immediately shut down the premises, citing serious violations of public health and wildlife protection laws.
Speaking after the arrest, a representative from KWS condemned the illegal practice, noting that flamingos are protected species under Kenyan law.
“This is both a criminal and environmental offense. Flamingos are not food animals, and anyone found dealing in their meat will face prosecution,” the officer said.
Local residents expressed shock at the revelations, with some recalling frequenting the hotel unaware of what was being served.
“We thought it was just normal beef or goat meat. It’s disturbing to learn we have been eating flamingo,” one customer lamented.
The suspect is expected to be charged with multiple offenses, including contravening public health regulations and violating the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act.
If found guilty, he could face hefty fines or imprisonment.
Officials used the incident to caution other hoteliers against illegal food practices, warning that routine inspections would continue across the county to protect both consumers and wildlife.
The arrest has sparked conversations on food safety and wildlife protection, with many Kenyans calling for stricter enforcement to prevent such practices from endangering public health and biodiversity.
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