By N, KNA
A major operation has been launched in Bomet after county officials uncovered eateries secretly selling flamingo meat to unsuspecting customers.
County Chief Officer of Health Felix Langat said the crackdown is aimed at protecting both public health and endangered wildlife.
He described the discovery as “alarming”, warning that consuming unregulated game meat exposes residents to dangerous diseases.
“We have received disturbing reports that some food outlets are offering flamingo meat as a delicacy. Our teams have been deployed across Bomet town and nearby trading centres to inspect eateries. This is a serious health concern”, said Langat.
Health inspectors raided several establishments in Bomet town, where they confiscated meat suspected to be from flamingoes. Officials said those found guilty of selling the meat will face prosecution under public health laws.
One eatery owner, a lady arrested with nearly 20 kilograms of suspected flamingo meat was taken into custody and is being held at Bomet Police Station.
According to county officers, the meat was already being prepared for cooking, disguised as chicken when the raid was conducted.
The revelation has sparked curiosity and concern among locals. Some expressed shock that flamingoes, an iconic attraction at Rift Valley lakes such as Nakuru and Bogoria were being hunted and sold as food.
“We never imagined such meat could be sold here,” said one resident. This news has made me more cautious about where I eat.”
Others commended the county government for acting swiftly to protect the public.
Langat urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious sales of meat. He said that protecting public health was government priority. He added that the county administration would not relent and such crackdowns would continue until all illegal meat suppliers are brought to book.
County officials said several other suspects linked to the illegal trade are being pursued, with heightened surveillance expected across all the eateries within the county to curb the sale of illegal meat in the region.