The Borno State Police Command has arrested five suspects over their alleged involvement in the processing and sale of meat from dead cattle, in what authorities described as a major public health concern.
According to an official statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Borno State Command, ASP Nahum Daso, the suspects were arrested on July 29 by operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (Crack Squad) during an intelligence-led operation at the Old Maiduguri Cattle Market.
The statement alleged that preliminary investigations revealed the suspects conspired to obtain cattle that had died, butcher the carcasses and supply the meat to roadside vendors for sale to unsuspecting members of the public.
Police said the suspects were apprehended while allegedly in possession of the carcass of a dead cow, which they were reportedly transporting to the Morumti area of Maiduguri for further processing and distribution.
The Command disclosed that the suspects remain in custody while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the alleged operation, identify the intended distribution network and apprehend other persons who may be connected with the practice. They are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Commenting on the development, the Commissioner of Police, Borno State Command, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, psc, condemned the alleged practice, describing it as a serious threat to public health.
He assured residents that the Command would continue working with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to prevent the sale and consumption of unwholesome meat across the state.
The Commissioner also announced plans to convene a meeting with abattoir operators, butchers’ associations, livestock dealers, meat vendors and regulatory authorities to strengthen monitoring, improve compliance with food safety standards and prevent a recurrence.
The Police Command urged residents, particularly meat vendors and consumers, to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities related to the slaughter, processing, transportation or sale of meat, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding public health and ensuring the wellbeing of residents.
