The Department of Veterinary Services took decisive action last week when they intercepted and subsequently destroyed seven cattle that had been illegally transported from a quarantined area. These cattle were en route to a slaughterhouse located outside the province, raising serious concerns about public health and the potential risks posed by the illegal movement of livestock.
Quarantine Measures Aim to Control Disease Spread
The Tanda area of Makoni North had been placed under quarantine due to the presence of two serious diseases: January Disease (JD) and Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). Quarantine measures are essential to prevent the further spread of such diseases, making it illegal to move livestock in or out of the affected area. However, unscrupulous individuals attempted to circumvent these measures, putting the health of both livestock and consumers at risk.
Alert Veterinary Officer Foils Illegal Transport
The Manica Post reports that the illegal movement of the cattle was halted by an alert veterinary officer who discovered the animals on a lorry along the Mayo-Chiendambuya Road early last Saturday morning. The suspects involved in the transportation of the cattle were handed over to the police for further investigation, although their identities remain unknown at this time.
Authorities suspect the existence of a syndicate that entices farmers with monetary incentives to provide sick cattle for slaughter, bypassing the necessary protocols. Dr. Charles Guri, the Provincial Veterinary Officer for Manicaland, stated that unscrupulous abattoirs may be involved in slaughtering infected cattle and selling the meat, disregarding public health and safety.
Vigorous Measures Taken to Prevent Further Incidents
In response to the incident, Dr. Guri and his team received a destruction and disposal order for the affected cattle. The order was issued by the Director in the Department of Veterinary Services, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The cattle were promptly destroyed to prevent any potential spread of diseases into the food chain.
Warning Issued to Culprits and Butcheries
Dr. Guri issued a stern warning to both the illegal traders and abattoirs involved in the slaughter of diseased cattle. He emphasized that all livestock illegally moved from quarantined areas would face destruction, and authorities have implemented roadblocks to curb such illegal activities. Additionally, authorities have ordered all butcheries to cease selling diseased meat, as it poses a severe risk to public health and is against the law.
Public Urged to Support Legal and Ethical Meat Sources
To ensure the safety and quality of meat for commercial purposes, consumers are urged to purchase meat only from registered abattoirs where compulsory meat inspection is conducted. This measure is critical in safeguarding public health and preventing the consumption of meat from diseased animals.
In conclusion, the interception and destruction of diseased cattle en route to an abattoir outside the province have raised serious concerns about public health and the illegal trade of livestock. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to quarantine measures and ethical practices in the meat industry to protect consumers and prevent potential health crises. Authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to thwart further illegal activities and safeguard public health.
Source iHarare.com
