Teenager caught on camera mishandling Kenyan flag at Nyayo Stadium arrested

Paulette Mboga 25th September, 2025 05:59 PM

The Kenyan national flag under blue sky. Image is used for illustration. PHOTO/Pexels

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a 17-year-old boy in connection with the desecration of Kenya’s national flag during a football match at Nyayo Stadium.

The boy, who was among two individuals captured on camera mishandling the flag, is now in custody as investigations continue.

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The incident occurred on 20 September 2025 during a CAF Champions League fixture between Mogadishu City Club and Kenya Police FC. Authorities confirmed that the actions of the two suspects constituted a violation of national law and a grave insult to Kenya’s dignity.

In a statement shared by the DCI on X on Thursday, September 25, 2025, according to Section 2B of the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act (Cap 99), “Any person who shows disrespect, in speech, manner or writing, to or with reference to the National Anthem, or to any specified emblem, specified likeness or specified name, or any representation thereof, shall be guilty of an offence.”

DCI’s statement. PHOTO/A screengrab by People Daily Digitak from @DCI_Kenya/X

The arrest marks the first major step taken by the DCI in response to widespread outrage over the handling of the national symbol.

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Authorities revealed that while the person of interest is now in custody, efforts are underway to apprehend the second one, believed to still be in the country. The DCI has intensified surveillance and called on members of the public to provide any information that could aid in the arrest.

“The incident took place on 20/09/2025 at Nyayo Stadium, where two individuals were captured on camera disrespecting the national flag—an act that is both unlawful and deeply offensive to the values we uphold as a nation,” the statement from the DCI noted in part.

The Kenyan flag is regarded as a symbol of unity, sovereignty, and sacrifice, and its violation is treated as a serious offence.

Officials further emphasised that the arrest should serve as a warning to anyone attempting to dishonour national emblems. Legal experts note that upon conviction, those found guilty under the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act could face fines or imprisonment.

The DCI reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice.