Authorities in Islamabad have wrapped up their investigation into the recent seizure of donkey meat from a warehouse in the Tarnol area, confirming that the recovered meat was not distributed within the capital. According to police sources, the meat and hides were intended for export to China and were intercepted before shipment could occur.
The probe followed a raid conducted by a food safety team, which uncovered over 1,000 kilograms of donkey meat, 45 live donkeys, and several hides from a warehouse. Remains and bones of the slaughtered animals were later discarded in Sector C-16. Investigators revealed that 60 donkeys had been transported from Faisalabad, with only 15 slaughtered over a 17-day period. The meat and skins were to be exported to China via Gwadar Port, but the operation was foiled in time.
The warehouse was reportedly operated by a Chinese national, Jiang Liang, who has recorded his statement with the police. Two others involved in the case — Fayyaz, who had rented the warehouse, and Aamir, a property dealer — were arrested from Taxila for failing to provide rental agreements and other required documents. Both were sent to jail on judicial remand, though the charges are bailable.
Islamabad Police concluded the investigation within four days, stating there is no evidence the meat was circulated or consumed in the federal capital. “All signs indicate it was solely for export,” confirmed a police official.
However, the scandal appears to be spreading. In Battagram’s Koza Banda China Camp, local authorities seized additional donkey meat and arrested suspects involved in a similar operation. Residents have expressed deep concern over the presence of such meat in their locality and are demanding stricter monitoring and tougher penalties to prevent such illegal practices in the future.
