KWS Warns Public Against Consuming Hyena Meat Killed in Thika

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued a public health and safety warning against the consumption of hyena meat after an incident in Thika West Sub-County, Kiambu County, where a hyena was killed and butchered by residents.

In a statement on Saturday, April 11, 2026, KWS said the hyena was spotted at around 8:00 am feeding on dumped poultry remains in Kamenu Location, near Thika town.

According to the agency, residents surrounded the animal, chased it, killed it, and slaughtered it before response teams arrived at the scene. KWS further reported that several individuals fled with parts of the carcass, including internal organs.

The wildlife agency has now strongly warned members of the public against handling or consuming any meat from the animal, cautioning that it poses serious health risks.

“Hyenas are scavengers and may carry dangerous diseases such as Rabies, Anthrax, Brucellosis, and foodborne infections like Salmonella and E. coli,” the statement read.

KWS advised anyone in possession of the carcass to surrender it immediately to the authority and urged those who may have been exposed to seek medical attention without delay.

“The killing and consumption of wildlife is illegal and punishable by law. Protect your health. Say no to bush meat,” the agency added.