Authorities in Bomet County have apprehended a hotel owner for allegedly selling flamingo meat to unsuspecting clients, raising serious public health concerns. The arrest came after an impromptu operation led by Director of Public Health Leonard Lang’at and County Public Health Officer Felix Langat.
During the raid, officers discovered freshly supplied flamingo meat stored at the hotel, some of which was already being cooked. The county government confirmed the sting operation in a public statement, emphasizing the dangers associated with consuming such illegal meat.
“The owner has been apprehended for allegedly selling flamingos following a sting operation conducted early today by county officials. County officers raided the premises and discovered freshly supplied flamingo meat, raising serious public health concerns,” the County Government of Bomet stated.
Chief Officer Langat warned other food businesses against engaging in the unlawful supply of meat. He reiterated that all food establishments must possess a valid Health Food Hygiene Licence to operate legally.
“We are asking everyone who handles food, whether in storage, preparation, or sale, to have a Health Food Hygiene Licence,” Langat said.
The crackdown is part of a broader county initiative to ensure food safety, following reports of over 3,500 cases of stomach-related illnesses in recent months. Langat also linked rising cancer cases in the county to unsafe food practices, including the use of unlawful chemicals in preparing local drinks such as mursik.
Residents are urged to be cautious about where and what they eat to avoid health risks. County officials warned that any business owner, operator, or supplier found violating health regulations will face strict legal action.
Bomet County continues to monitor food establishments, emphasizing public health as a top priority and vowing to enforce compliance among all food vendors.
