BREAKING NEWS – KENYA
Hotel Owner Arrested in Bomet for Serving Flamingo Meat to Unsuspecting Customers
Bomet County, Kenya | Thursday, September 25, 2025 — A hotel owner in Bomet County has been arrested following a shocking discovery that he was illegally selling flamingo meat to unsuspecting customers, raising major public health and environmental concerns.
The arrest came during an impromptu operation led by the Director of Public Health, Leonard Lang’at, alongside County Public Health Officer, Felix Langat, under the Department of Health Services.
Authorities raided the hotel early Thursday and found freshly supplied flamingo meat, some of which was already in the process of being cooked and served.
“The owner has been apprehended for allegedly selling flamingos following a sting operation conducted early today by county officials,” a statement from the County Government of Bomet read.
“Officers discovered freshly supplied flamingo meat on the premises, raising serious public health concerns.”
❌ Flamingo Meat Raises Ecological and Health Alarms
While flamingo meat is reportedly edible and has a taste similar to chicken, health and wildlife experts have warned that its consumption is not acceptable due to potential health hazards and the threat to ecological balance.
“We are warning all food business operators involved in illegal meat supply to stop immediately,” said Chief Officer Langat.
“All food handlers — from suppliers to hotel owners — must be licensed and meet all hygiene regulations.”
Crackdown on Unsafe Foods in Bomet
The arrest is part of a county-wide crackdown on food vendors and hotels suspected of selling illegal or contaminated food. According to health officials, over 3,500 cases of stomach-related illnesses have been reported in recent months, with many linked to unregulated food sources.
Langat also revealed a worrying rise in cancer cases in Bomet, some of which have been traced to the use of harmful chemicals in preparing local fermented milk drink, mursik.
“Cancer cases are increasing, and some are directly linked to the food people are consuming,” Langat stated.
“Moving forward, we will strictly enforce all food safety regulations to protect public health.”
⚠️ Public Urged to Be Vigilant
The Department of Health Services has urged residents to exercise caution when choosing where to eat, and to verify the hygiene standards of food establishments.
“If you handle food — whether storing, cooking, or selling — you must have a valid Health Food Hygiene Licence,” Langat emphasized.
The county government has confirmed that more operations will follow, and that any individual or business found in violation of health regulations will face legal action.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow.
