KWS Issues Warning After Residents Kill Hyena and Flee With Meat

The Kenya Wildlife Service has issued a public health alert following an incident in Kamenu Location, Thika West Sub-County, Kiambu County, where a hyena was discovered feeding on dumped poultry remains early morning of April 11, 2026, at around 0800hrs.

In a statement, KWS said residents surrounded the animal, chased it, and killed it before response teams could arrive.

The hyena was then slaughtered on the spot, with several individuals reportedly fleeing with parts of the carcass, including internal organs.

KWS has strongly warned members of the public against handling, consuming, or distributing any meat from the animal, saying such practices pose serious health risks.

Officials stressed that wildlife should never be consumed under any circumstances, especially scavengers like hyenas that may feed on contaminated waste and carcasses.

“Members of the public are strongly advised not to handle or consume meat from wild animals as they may carry dangerous diseases that can be transmitted to humans,” KWS said.

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Health risks highlighted

Authorities warned that consumption or handling of wild animal meat exposes individuals to several zoonotic diseases, including:

• Rabies
• Anthrax
• Brucellosis
• Foodborne infections such as Salmonella infection and E. coli infection

They further cautioned that improper slaughtering and handling increase the likelihood of contamination and rapid spread of infections within communities.

Advisory to residents

Members of the public have been urged to:

• Avoid consuming or distributing the meat
• Surrender any recovered carcass parts immediately to the authorities
• Seek urgent medical attention if they have had any exposure.

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Authorities maintained that killing and consuming wildlife is illegal under Kenyan law and punishable, urging residents to report such incidents instead of taking matters into their own hands.

The public has been reminded to prioritize safety and adhere to wildlife protection regulations.

“Protect your health,Say No to Bush Meat,” warned part of the statement.

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The image shows the entrance to KWS Headquarters. PHOTO/Nation