A mobile court in Gazipur has conducted an operation in the Hyderabad area under the Sadar Metro police station to stop the sale of horse meat, following growing concerns over public health and ethical issues.

The operation was carried out yesterday (March 18), led by Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Jalal Uddin, along with Gazipur Sadar Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Mohammad Shahin Mia. 

The operation targeted local meat seller Shafiqul Islam. 

During the raid, Shafiqul was warned against slaughtering and selling horse meat, and authorities issued an order to immediately halt sales.

The raid comes after discussions held on March 17, with Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Gazipur City Corporation Administrator Sharaf Uddin Chowdhury, where calls were made to ban horse meat sales in the area.

Dr. Shahin Mia emphasized that, under the Animal Slaughter and Meat Control Act of 2011, slaughtering animals and selling meat without health inspection and a valid license is a punishable offense, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Local sources revealed that Shafiqul Islam and his associate, Nurullah Mamun, were inspired by horse meat consumption during a visit to Dubai, leading them to establish a horse meat-selling shop in early 2025.

Authorities have vowed to continue monitoring the situation to ensure compliance.

BDST: 1101 HRS, March 19, 2025
MN