The Borno State Police Command has arrested five suspects over the alleged processing and selling of meat from dead cattle in Maiduguri, the state capital.
This was disclosed in a statement on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Nahum Daso.
The suspects are Modu Umar 43 years, Abba Mohammed 24 years, Adam Abubakar 21 years, Faruq Gambo 19 years and Mada Usman 24 years.
The statement said the five suspects were arrested by operatives of the command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (Crack Squad) on the strength of credible intelligence at the Old Maiduguri Cattle Market about 8am on July 29.
The statement reads, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects allegedly conspired to obtain cattle found dead, butchered the carcasses and supply the meat to roadside meat vendors for onward sale to members of the public.
“At the time of arrest, the suspects were allegedly found in possession of the carcass of a dead cow, which they were reportedly attempting to transport to the Morumti area of Maiduguri for further processing and distribution.
“The suspects are in police custody and a discreet investigation is underway to ascertain the full extent of the activity and trace the intended distribution network and identify and apprehend other persons who may be connected with the alleged practice.
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When the investigation is over the suspects will be charged accordingly in court.”
The Borno State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, condemned the practice, saying it could endanger public health.
He assured the residents that the command would continue to work with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to prevent the sale and consumption of unwholesome meat within the state.
As part of preventive measures, the CP vowed to convene a community engagement with abattoir operators, butchers’ associations, livestock dealers, meat vendors, relevant regulatory authorities and other critical stakeholders to strengthen monitoring, promote compliance with public health and food safety standards, and develop measures aimed at preventing a recurrence.
It also called on members of the public, especially meat vendors and consumers to be vigilant and report suspicious activities relating to slaughtering, processing, transportation or sale of meat, to the nearest police station or appropriate regulatory authority.
The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding public health and working collaboratively with communities and relevant agencies to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all residents.
