Butcher Arrested in Soran for Selling Smuggled Meat as Local Product
Shop owner and seller
Erbil butchers arrested for selling smuggled frozen meat as fresh and locally produced
ERBIL — Authorities in Erbil arrested a butcher in the Soran Independent Administration on Monday for selling smuggled frozen meat disguised as fresh local meat, following an investigation into unsanitary practices at his shop.
In a statement, the Erbil Asayish Directorate announced, “The Soran Asayish seized a large quantity of illegally imported frozen meat after gathering detailed information on the activities of the butcher, identified as Walat, in the Soran Independent Administration.”
The statement detailed that the butcher had smuggled frozen Brazilian roast meat into his shop, where it was improperly stored on the floor and thawed using a toaster oven. The meat was then mixed and sold to customers as fresh local meat.
On Jan. 10, 2025, the Soran Asayish arrested the shop owner, identified as W. M. H., along with the primary seller, N. T. J. Both suspects are currently under investigation, and their case has been referred to the judiciary for further action.