Authorities in Embu County have intercepted a Toyota Hiace van carrying 1,500 kilograms of donkey meat, sparking fresh concerns over illegal slaughter and unregulated meat trade in the region.
Midnight Operation Leads to Arrest
Acting on intelligence, detectives stopped the van along the Kiritiri-Embu Highway around midnight. Upon inspection, officers discovered over 15 donkey carcasses packed in sacks, along with donkey hides and private parts, allegedly destined for an illicit market.
The driver of the vehicle was arrested and taken into custody at the Itabua Police Station, where he is being interrogated. Investigators are working to trace the source of the meat and its intended destination.
Health Concerns Raised
Public health officials have warned residents to exercise caution when purchasing meat, highlighting the risks posed by uninspected and illegally sourced products.
“We are intensifying efforts to ensure such unregulated meat is removed from the market to protect public health,” said Embu West Sub-County Public Health Officer John Njagi.
Veterinary Surgeon Dr. Arthur Njiru also sounded the alarm, citing a recent anthrax outbreak in parts of Embu County.
“The risk of zoonotic diseases is real. Consumers must verify the source of their meat to avoid serious health implications,” Dr. Njiru emphasized.
Recurring Problem of Illegal Slaughter
This latest seizure comes just three months after police uncovered 20 freshly slaughtered donkey carcasses in a homestead in Runyenjes Constituency. In that incident, three suspects were arrested, and the meat was suspected to be heading for Nairobi markets.
In another incident last month, residents of the Makutano area in Mwea Sub-County were shocked to discover 31 slaughtered donkeys at a neighbor’s homestead, further highlighting the scale of this illegal trade.
Authorities Vow to Act
Police and local authorities have pledged to intensify crackdowns on the illegal slaughter and distribution of uninspected meat. Residents are being urged to report any suspicious activities related to the transportation or sale of meat.
