Five Arrested for Allegedly Supplying Meat From Dead Cows to Consumers in Maiduguri

Five Arrested for Allegedly Supplying Meat From Dead Cows to Consumers in Maiduguri
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly sourced cattle that had died, butchered the carcasses and supplied the meat to roadside vendors
Police assured residents that the Command would continue to collaborate with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to curb the sale of unwholesome meat

The Borno State Police Command has arrested five suspects for allegedly processing and distributing meat from dead cattle to unsuspecting consumers in Maiduguri.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the suspects were apprehended on July 29, 2026, by operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, popularly known as the Crack Squad, following intelligence reports of the alleged illegal activity at the Old Maiduguri Cattle Market.

The police identified the suspects as Modu Umar, 43; Abba Mohammed, 24; Adam Abubakar, 21; Faruq Gambo, 19; and Mada Usman, 24.

According to the Command, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly sourced cattle that had died, butchered the carcasses and supplied the meat to roadside vendors for resale to members of the public.

Police said the suspects were arrested while allegedly transporting the carcass of a dead cow to the Morumti area of Maiduguri, where it was reportedly meant for further processing and distribution.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, said investigations were ongoing to determine the full scope of the operation and identify other persons connected to the alleged crime.

“The suspects are currently in police custody while discreet investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the activity, trace the intended distribution network, identify and apprehend other persons who may be connected with the alleged practice,” the statement said.

The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, condemned the alleged sale of meat from dead animals, describing it as a serious threat to public health.

He assured residents that the Command would continue to collaborate with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to curb the sale of unwholesome meat and safeguard public health across the state.