Mogadishu Fan Who Insulted Kenyan Flag Arrested in Nairobi

Seventeen-year-old Ibrahim Haidar Yusuf, the Mogadishu City FC fan captured in a viral video desecrating Kenya’s national flag at Nyayo Stadium, has been arrested.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed on Thursday, September 25, that Yusuf, one of two suspects wanted over the incident, is now in custody.

The arrest follows public outrage after a video emerged showing a group of young men trampling on and mishandling the Kenyan flag during a CAF Champions League preliminary match between Mogadishu City Club and Kenya Police FC on September 20, 2025.

DCI described the act as unlawful and “deeply offensive to the values we uphold as a nation.”

The National Flag, Emblems, and Names Act, Cap 99, explicitly criminalizes any form of disrespect toward national symbols, including the flag and anthem.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who earlier directed police to act swiftly, said the arrest was a strong message that Kenya would not tolerate disrespect to its symbols of unity.

“Our flag was earned through sweat and blood. We will not allow anyone, Kenyan or foreigner, to demean it,” Murkomen said during the Jukwaa la Usalama forum in Wajir.

Investigators are still pursuing a second suspect believed to be hiding in the country.

Authorities have pledged to work with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure swift prosecution once the case is finalized.

The incident triggered a wave of anger across Kenya, with citizens demanding strict enforcement of the law.

Murkomen emphasized that protecting national symbols was not only about legal compliance but also safeguarding patriotism and national cohesion.