By Nigel Pfunde
HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a nationwide operation targeting butcheries, abattoirs and meat vendors in an intensified crackdown on stock theft and the illegal sale of meat.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said on Tuesday the operation aims to enforce strict compliance with laws governing livestock movement, slaughter and meat distribution.
“The operation is aimed at enforcing strict compliance with legal provisions relating to illegal selling of meat as well as ownership, movement, slaughter and disposal of livestock, including cattle, goats and sheep,” Comm Nyathi said.
Police investigations have uncovered a growing trend in which criminal syndicates steal livestock, particularly cattle and goats, from farms and rural areas, before slaughtering the animals and transporting the meat to urban centres for sale.
“The stolen meat is often packed in buckets and transported in vehicle boots or concealed compartments before being sold in open spaces, along streets at informal markets and even outside established supermarkets,” Comm Nyathi said.
The ZRP said some registered businesses, including butcheries and food outlets, are fuelling the illegal trade by purchasing meat from unverified suppliers.
*Roadblocks, Inspections Intensified*
Under the operation, law enforcement agents will conduct stop-and-search patrols and roadblock blitzes targeting vehicles suspected of transporting illegal meat.
Inspections have also been intensified at both registered and unregistered abattoirs, butcheries, sausage producers and other food outlets to verify the origin and legality of meat products.
Police warned that all butcheries are required by law to maintain proper records showing the source of their meat, including supplier details and proof of lawful acquisition.
Abattoirs have also been directed to ensure that all livestock presented for slaughter is accompanied by a valid police clearance and veterinary certification.
“Individuals and entities found on the wrong side of the law, including transporters, buyers, butcheries, abattoirs, vendors and suppliers, will be arrested without fear or favour,” Comm Nyathi said.
The blitz comes as Government moves to protect rural livelihoods and the national herd under Vision 2030. Stock theft carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 9 years, with no option of a fine.
Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said stock theft is “economic sabotage” that undermines food security and rural incomes.
“Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo. We cannot build the nation if criminals are allowed to steal the wealth of our farmers,” Minister Kazembe said.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development said the operation supports the Command Livestock Programme, which has distributed over 500 000 cattle to farmers since 2017.
Police urged the public to buy meat only from licensed butcheries and to report suspicious sales on the National Complaints Desk 0242-703631.
