Donkey Meat
The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) has uncovered a disturbing case involving the illegal slaughter and distribution of donkey meat in the federal capital. Acting on a tip-off, the IFA conducted a successful raid in the Tarnol area on Sunday, where they seized approximately 25 maunds (nearly 1,000 kilograms) of donkey meat.
The operation, which was aimed at curbing the illegal meat trade, also led to the recovery of over 50 live donkeys from the premises.
The raid was carried out after authorities received credible information about the illegal activity. During the raid, IFA officials discovered large quantities of already-processed donkey meat, raising serious concerns about its possible distribution for public consumption.
The director of the Islamabad Food Authority confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated against those involved. A formal investigation is underway, and authorities have been directed to file a case against the perpetrators.
One foreign national who was present at the site during the raid has been handed over to the local police for further questioning. Authorities are probing the individual’s role in the operation and whether there is an international angle to the illegal meat trade. Investigations are also being conducted to determine which markets or regions the confiscated meat may have been supplied to.
Another line of inquiry is exploring whether the meat was intended for consumption by foreign nationals residing in the area or elsewhere.
This incident has sent shockwaves across Islamabad, raising public health and food safety concerns. The IFA has pledged to strengthen monitoring and enforcement measures to prevent similar cases in the future. Authorities are also appealing to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to food supply chains.
In a related incident earlier this year, police in Karachi had arrested two suspects involved in the illegal trade of animal hides.
During a raid in the Korangi Industrial Area, police seized approximately 800 hides of donkeys and dogs, allegedly collected from across Pakistan and Afghanistan and destined for export to China. These recent incidents underscore the need for stricter regulations and harsher penalties to deter such illicit practices.
