The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a manhunt for a group of Somali boys seen in a viral video mishandling the Kenyan flag. The DCI described the act as a serious show of disrespect to Kenya's most important symbol.

The video, which circulated widely on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, shows the boys laughing and playing as they drag and toss the flag around.

The footage quickly triggered outrage online. Kenyans called the act an insult to national pride and demanded immediate action from the authorities.

Immediate Reaction and Legal Action

Following the public outcry, the DCI confirmed it had identified the individuals. They instructed officers to track them down and arrest them.

The agency noted that the national flag is a protected emblem under Kenyan law. Disrespecting it is a punishable offence.

“This kind of conduct cannot be tolerated. The Kenyan flag represents the unity, struggles, and sovereignty of our nation. Those involved will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly,” a senior DCI officer said.

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Public Outrage and Debate

The video sparked a heated debate on social media. Many Kenyans condemned the boys’ behaviour as unpatriotic.

While some users called for tough penalties, others urged authorities to use the incident as a "teachable moment."

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They believe it's an opportunity to educate young people, especially within immigrant communities, about the meaning of national symbols.

This is not just a piece of cloth. It’s our heritage, our history, our pride. Anyone who plays with the flag is mocking the entire country.

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This comment from an online user reflects the strong feelings of many Kenyans.

The Law on National Symbols

Kenya's National Flag, Emblems and Names Act strictly prohibits any misuse or desecration of the flag. Offenders can face fines or jail terms.

This incident serves as a clear reminder of how sensitive national symbols are and the consequences of misusing them.

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Unconfirmed reports suggested that security agencies were closing in on the boys' location, believed to be in Eastleigh, Nairobi. The DCI stated that further details would be shared once the arrests have been made.

The DCI is expected to carry out the arrests quickly to send a strong message about protecting national dignity.