Source: NEW: Police target butcheries, abattoirs in anti-stock theft blitz – herald
Harmony Agere
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a nationwide operation targeting butcheries, abattoirs and meat vendors as part of an intensified crackdown on stock theft and illegal sale of meat.
In a statement on Tuesday, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the operation aims to enforce strict compliance with laws governing livestock movement, slaughter and meat distribution.
Police said investigations have uncovered a growing trend in which criminal syndicates steal livestock, particularly cattle and goats, from farms and rural areas, before slaughtering the animals and transporting the meat to urban centres for sale.
“The operation is aimed at enforcing strict compliance with legal provisions relating to illegal selling of meat as well as ownership, movement, slaughter and disposal of livestock, including cattle, goats and sheep,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
“The stolen meat is often packed in buckets and transported in vehicle boots or concealed compartments before being sold in open spaces, along streets at informal markets and even outside established supermarkets.”
The police said some registered businesses, including butcheries and food outlets, are fuelling the illegal trade by purchasing meat from unverified suppliers.
Under the operation, law enforcement agents will conduct stop-and-search patrols and roadblock blitzes targeting vehicles suspected of transporting illegal meat.
Inspections have also been intensified at both registered and unregistered abattoirs, butcheries, sausage producers and other food outlets to verify the origin and legality of meat products.
Police warned that all butcheries are required by law to maintain proper records showing the source of their meat, including supplier details and proof of lawful acquisition.
Abattoirs have also been directed to ensure that all livestock presented for slaughter is accompanied by a valid police clearance and veterinary certification.
“Individuals and entities found on the wrong side of the law, including transporters, buyers, butcheries, abattoirs, vendors and suppliers, will be arrested without fear or favour,” said Comm Nyathi.
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