From Stable to Table: Donkey Meat Scandal Shocks Islamabad
Usman Zia
The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) recovered over 1,000 kilograms of donkey meat in a surprise raid on a facility in Tarnol, exposing a disturbing case of illegal meat processing in the federal capital.
During the operation, IFA officials also discovered more than 50 live donkeys allegedly being kept for slaughter. A foreign national was arrested at the site, while other individuals involved managed to flee before law enforcement arrived.
Speaking exclusively to APP, IFA Deputy Director Operations Dr Tahira Siddique said the raid was conducted following a late-night tip-off. “We acted immediately and found a large quantity of meat along with a functioning illegal slaughter and processing setup,” she said.
The arrested individual has been handed over to police for further investigation, while an FIR has been registered against the unidentified suspects who fled the scene. The Assistant Commissioner, area magistrate, and local police teams were also present during the operation.
Dr. Tahira revealed that preliminary findings suggest the meat was intended primarily for foreign nationals residing in Islamabad, although the possibility of broader distribution within the city cannot be ruled out.
“This is an unlawful operation on multiple counts. The suspects had no valid permits, documentation, or licenses for meat processing or export,” she stated.
The IFA immediately destroyed the recovered meat to prevent it from entering the food supply chain. “We documented the entire process and ensured safe disposal of the seized meat,” said Dr Tahira.
An investigation is now underway to determine how long the operation had been running and whether donkey meat had already been sold in local markets. Authorities are examining distribution networks, cold storage facilities, and supply chains to trace the reach of the operation.
“This is not just a legal violation—it’s a public health crisis,” Dr Tahira emphasized. “Such practices pose serious threats to hygiene, food safety, and even religious sensitivities. We will not tolerate any attempt to compromise the city’s food standards.”
The IFA has urged citizens to report any suspicious meat supply activities or illegal slaughterhouses, stressing that public cooperation is crucial in identifying and preventing food safety violations.
“All meat sold in Islamabad must be traceable, documented, and certified by the relevant authorities,” Dr Tahira added. “Any meat found without proper certification will be confiscated and those responsible prosecuted.”
The Islamabad Food Authority has pledged to remain vigilant and continue its crackdown on illegal meat operations, vowing to safeguard the health and safety of consumers in the capital.
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