By Grace Gilo
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested 17-year-old Ibrahim Haidar Yusuf in connection with the desecration of Kenya’s national flag during a football match at Nyayo Stadium on September 20, 2025.
Yusuf was one of two individuals captured on video desecrating the flag and was being sought by the DCI.
“17-year-old Ibrahim Haidar Yusuf, one of the individuals shown in the attached photo who was wanted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in connection with an incident involving the desecration of Kenya’s national flag has been arrested,” DCI confirmed in a statement.
The incident occurred during a match between Mogadishu City Club and Police FC, where both suspects were filmed disrespecting the national emblem, an act that has drawn widespread condemnation for being unlawful and offensive to the nation’s values.
According to Section 2B of The National Flag Emblem & Names Act, Cap 99, any person who shows disrespect to the national anthem or emblem through speech, manner, or writing can be prosecuted for the offense.
Authorities have confirmed that efforts are ongoing to locate the second suspect, who is believed to still be within the country.
The arrest follows an order from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to arrest, prosecute, and deport the two individuals involved.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja also instructed the DCI to swiftly bring the culprits to justice.
Additionally, Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, issued a statement denouncing the act.