In a shocking revelation, the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) conducted a decisive operation in the Tarnol area, uncovering a disturbing illegal meat distribution racket. Acting on a credible tip-off, officials seized 25 maunds of donkey meat, along with over 50 live donkeys found at the location. This action sheds light on growing concerns over donkey meat being circulated in urban food markets, posing significant health risks to consumers.
According to ARY News, the raid was carried out by IFA personnel who were alerted to suspicious activities in Tarnol. Upon arrival, the team found a large quantity of suspicious meat along with numerous live animals in poor condition. Preliminary assessments confirmed the presence of donkey meat, leading to an immediate confiscation of the meat and animals.
An investigation has been officially launched to determine the full extent of the operation. Authorities are currently trying to identify the intended destinations for the illegal donkey meat. Early reports suggest the meat may have been distributed to various local markets, while some sources suspect it was possibly meant for foreign nationals residing in the area.
In a related development, one foreign national found on the premises was detained and handed over to the police for further questioning. IFA Director confirmed that legal action has been initiated against all individuals connected to the illegal operation.
This alarming incident follows a similar discovery earlier in Karachi, where police arrested two individuals involved in a separate yet equally disturbing case. Abdul Hameed, an Afghan national, along with an accomplice, was found to be in possession of over 800 hides of dogs and donkeys, stored in more than 200 sacks. The raid was conducted in the Korangi Industrial Area following another intelligence-based tip-off.
Police revealed that these hides were collected from different regions across Pakistan and Afghanistan and were being illegally exported to China. The incident further highlights the scope and scale of underground networks dealing in donkey meat and animal parts, raising concerns for both public health and animal rights.
The Islamabad Food Authority has reaffirmed its determination to put an end to these unlawful activities. The public is being urged by officials to exercise caution and report any questionable food-related activity. Since such instances raise questions about the openness and hygienic conditions of the nation’s food supply chains, the authority continues to place a high priority on ensuring food safety and safeguarding consumer health.
The IFA is currently tracing supply routes and storage units where the seized donkey meat might have been processed or preserved. More arrests are expected as the investigation unfolds. In order to determine whether the confiscated donkey meat was processed or preserved, the IFA is currently tracking down supply lines and storage facilities. As the investigation progresses, more arrests are anticipated.