Thika Residents Kill Hyena and Flee with Its Meat, KWS Issues Urgent Health Warning
A hyena was found feeding on dumped poultry remains in Kiambu County and was killed by residents, who then fled with its meat before wildlife officials could arrive.
The incident happened on Monday morning around 8 a.m. in Kamenu Location, Thika West Sub-County, near Thika.
According to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), a crowd of residents gathered around the animal, chased it down, killed it, and butchered it on the spot. Several people then ran away carrying parts of the hyena’s body, including internal organs.
By the time KWS response teams reached the scene, the meat was already gone.
Because of this, KWS has issued a strong public health warning. The agency says hyenas are scavengers that often carry dangerous diseases such as Rabies, Anthrax, Brucellosis, and foodborne infections like Salmonella and E. coli.
KWS is urging anyone who took the meat not to eat it. If someone has already consumed any part of the animal, they should seek medical attention immediately. The agency is also asking anyone in possession of the meat to surrender it to authorities right away.
In addition, KWS reminded the public that killing and consuming wildlife is illegal and punishable by law.
“Protect your health. Say No to Bush Meat,” the agency said.
