The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued an urgent health warning to Thika residents after a stray hyena was cornered, killed, butchered and parts of its carcass taken.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning in Thika West Sub-County, Kiambu County an area now placed on high alert.
According to KWS, the hyena was spotted feeding on dumped poultry remains in Kamenu Location. Residents surrounded it, chased it down, killed it and butchered the carcass.
“Several individuals then fled with portions of the carcass, including internal organs, before KWS response teams could arrive.” states the agency.
The agency is strongly cautioning members of the public against handling or consuming any part of the animal.
“Hyenas are scavengers and may carry dangerous diseases such as rabies, anthrax, brucellosis, and foodborne infections like salmonella and E. coli,” the KWS health alert stated.
Members of the public are urged not to eat the meat, to surrender any portions immediately to the authorities, and to seek medical attention promptly if they have handled or been exposed to the carcass.
“The killing and consumption of wildlife is illegal and punishable by law. No bushmeat,” KWS emphasized.
