Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has announced that the National Police Service (NPS) was apprised of an incident whereby foreigners were caught on camera desecrating a Kenyan flag during the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League first-leg tie between Kenya Police FC and Mogadishu City FC.

IG Kanja was speaking during the 45th Jukwaa La Usalama security meeting in Wajir County on Wednesday, September 24, where Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen was in attendance.

The police boss announced that NPS responded by launching investigations to track down those involved and ensure they face appropriate action.

“Desecration of national symbols is a serious offence, and those involved will face the full force of the law,” said IG Kanja.

He was responding to Murkomen, who directed police to move swiftly and take legal action against the foreigners, condemning their actions as a grave breach of Kenyan law and an insult to national unity.

The footage, which circulated widely on Tuesday, showed a group of youths supporting Mogadishu City FC stepping on and mishandling the Kenyan flag at Nyayo National Stadium following the match. The incident sparked nationwide outrage, with Kenyans calling for accountability and strict enforcement of the law.

Murkomen stressed that the actions violated the National Flag, Emblems, and Names Act, which prohibits disrespect toward the Kenyan flag and other national symbols. He underscored the need to uphold the law to safeguard the dignity of these emblems.

“There is a law that governs how our national flag is to be treated, and no one, whether Kenyan or a foreigner, has the right to demean our flag. It was earned through sweat and blood, and we will not allow anyone to play around with it,” he went on.

“Inspector General, Kenyans expect decisive action. Those involved must be identified, investigated, and prosecuted without delay. The law must take its course to restore public confidence in our ability to enforce justice.”

Murkomen cautioned that ignoring such incidents would weaken patriotism and create a dangerous example for future generations. He stressed the importance of raising children to respect national symbols and values, warning that acts like burning, trampling, or misusing the flag send harmful signals and cannot be tolerated.

He further reminded foreign nationals that living in Kenya is a privilege that carries strict responsibilities. “Being in Kenya is not a right. If you misuse that privilege by attacking our symbols of unity, you will face consequences,” Murkomen warned.

In reaction to the uproar, Mogadishu City Club released a public apology, disassociating itself from the conduct of its supporters.

The club also expressed support for any disciplinary action Kenyan authorities may impose on those involved and called on its fans, especially the youth, to show respect toward all countries and their national symbols.