ISLAMABAD( The COW News Digital)- In a major crackdown, food authorities have seized a large quantity of donkey meat in Islamabad. The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) conducted a major operation in the Tarnol area, and recovered over 50 donkeys and approximately 1,000 kilograms (25 maunds) of meat.
Deputy Director of the IFA, Dr Tahira Siddique, was present at the scene during the raid.
The food authority director ordered immediate registration of a case against those involved. The confiscated meat is currently being destroyed by the IFA team as part of their standard procedure, Dr Siddique said.
According to Dr Siddique, the total amount of recovered meat was 25 maunds. A foreign national found at the site has been handed over to the police.
Officials said that investigation is under way to determine which areas the meat was being supplied to and whether it was intended for consumption by foreign nationals.
The IFA is also probing the broader network behind the distribution of the donkey meat, officials told HUM News English.
Dr Siddique said that the Islamabad Food Authority is working around the clock to ensure the provision of safe and hygienic food across the capital.
In May this year, Pakistan Customs stoooed a major smuggling attempt at Karachi port and seized donkey hides worth Rs80 million that were being illegally exported to China.
Pakistan has one of the world’s largest donkey populations. The 2023-24 Pakistan Economic Survey noted a rise from 5.5 million donkeys in 2019-20 to 5.9 million.
Donkey hides are in high demand in China, where they’re used to produce Ejiao — a traditional medicine made from gelatin. Donkey meat is also commonly served in Chinese cuisine, including burgers.
