The Borno State Police Command has arrested five suspects over the alleged processing and sale of contaminated meat obtained from dead cattle in Maiduguri.
The suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, also known as the Crack Squad, at the Old Maiduguri Cattle Market.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly acquired cattle that had died, butchered the carcasses and distributed the meat to roadside vendors for resale to unsuspecting members of the public.
The suspects were reportedly intercepted while transporting the carcass of a dead cow to the Morumti area of Maiduguri, where it was allegedly intended for further processing and distribution.
Police said the five suspects are in custody as investigations continue to determine the full extent of the alleged operation, identify the intended distribution network and apprehend other individuals who may have been involved.
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The Commissioner of Police in Borno State condemned the alleged practice, describing the sale of meat from dead animals as a serious threat to public health and consumer safety.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents by working with relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to prevent the circulation of unwholesome meat in markets across the state.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies to support efforts aimed at safeguarding public health and maintaining food safety standards.
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