The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has destroyed 1,000 kilograms of rotten and foul-smelling meat during an operation against an illegal slaughterhouse in Shahdara, Lahore.
The operation was conducted in Al Madina Colony, Shahdara, on the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
Sealed Slaughterhouse Allegedly Continued Operations
PFA Director General Raja Mansoor Ahmed said the slaughterhouse had already been sealed by authorities.
However, its owner allegedly continued slaughtering and preparing meat without obtaining the required permission.
During the inspection, food safety officials discovered a large quantity of meat stored in extremely unhygienic conditions.
The meat was reportedly heavily infested with flies and had a foul smell.
A veterinary specialist examined the meat at the site and declared it unfit and hazardous for human consumption.
The PFA subsequently destroyed the entire 1,000kg quantity to prevent it from entering the food supply.
Missing Licenses and Serious Hygiene Violations
Inspectors also found several violations at the slaughterhouse.
The facility reportedly had no valid license, mandatory records or meat-tagging system.
Officials also found open drains, damaged flooring and stagnant dirty water around the slaughtering area.
The poor sanitary conditions created serious concerns about food contamination and public health.
According to the PFA, the condition of the slaughtering area was highly unhygienic and unsuitable for preparing meat for consumers.
Owner Arrested After Alleged Resistance
The PFA said the slaughterhouse owner allegedly attempted to obstruct officials during the operation.
He reportedly damaged an official vehicle and attempted to flee from the site.
Authorities stopped the alleged attempt and arrested him.
A case has also been registered against the owner over the violations and alleged obstruction of the PFA team.
Raja Mansoor Ahmed said the Punjab Food Authority would continue strict action against businesses violating food safety laws.
He said the authority would maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward practices that could endanger consumers.
The PFA also urged citizens to report suspected food safety violations through its helpline 1223.
