The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed the arrest of a suspect accused of desecrating the Kenyan flag during last Saturday’s football clash between Mogadishu FC and Kenya Police.
In a statement released on Thursday, September 25, DCI noted that the suspect, a 17-year-old, was nabbed after a video of him and his accomplice desecrating the flag during the game went viral.
The incident, which occurred during the fixture on September 20, caused massive uproar amongst Kenyans, who demanded the immediate arrest of the two individuals.
Teen arrested after Kenyan flag was desecrated during match at Nyayo. Photo: Courtesy.
Police confirmed that the second suspect captured in the viral video remains at large, though investigators believe he is still within the country.
The DCI assured the public that efforts to track him down are ongoing.
The arrest follows a directive by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who, during a recent Jukwaa la Usalama forum, ordered the immediate apprehension of the two individuals, terming their actions a grave offence.
Echoing the IG’s stance, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned that foreigners found desecrating the Kenyan flag risk deportation.
He stressed that mocking or trivializing national symbols amounts to disrespect toward the country and its people.
According to Section 2B of the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act, Cap 99, it is an offence for any person to show disrespect—whether in speech, manner, or writing—towards the National Anthem or any specified emblem, likeness, or name.
Those found guilty of violating this law risk penalties of up to Ksh5,000 in fines and/or six months in prison.
In more serious cases, such as the unauthorized display of the national flag on vehicles, offenders may face fines of up to Ksh1 million and/or a five-year jail term.
