Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has warned residents of Kamenu Location in Thika West, Kiambu County, against consuming or handling meat from a hyena that was killed after being found feeding on dumped poultry remains on Saturday morning.
The animal was reportedly surrounded, killed, and butchered by residents before response teams arrived, with some individuals fleeing with parts of the carcass.
According to the advisory, the hyena had been spotted feeding on poultry waste that had been illegally dumped in the area before it was confronted by members of the public.
KWS noted that by the time wildlife officers and response teams reached the scene, the animal had already been slaughtered and portions of the carcass taken away by some individuals.
“Several individuals fled with parts of the carcass, including internal organs,” the statement said.
The wildlife agency strongly cautioned the public against any contact with the meat, warning that hyenas, being scavengers, may carry serious zoonotic diseases.
“Hyenas are scavengers and may carry dangerous diseases such as Rabies, Anthrax, Brucellosis, and foodborne infections like Salmonella infection and E. coli infection,” the advisory stated.
Officials emphasized that handling or consuming such meat poses significant health risks to humans and communities.
KWS further issued a public health and safety advisory urging residents to immediately surrender any recovered meat to authorities and avoid further handling.
“Do not consume the meat,” the agency warned, adding, “Surrender it immediately to authorities” and “Seek medical attention if exposed.”
The service also reminded the public that the killing and consumption of wildlife is illegal and punishable by law.
Authorities called for heightened vigilance and urged residents to report wildlife incidents promptly to prevent similar occurrences.
“The killing and consumption of wildlife is illegal and punishable by law,” KWS reiterated, urging the public to prioritize health and safety and “Say No to Bush Meat.”
