Online Reporter
Vusumuzi Dube, Deputy Radar Editor
BULAWAYO City Council is planning an interdepartmental enforcement operation to curb the growing number of illegal butcheries operating in Cowdray Park following complaints from residents.
According to the latest council report, an anonymous complaint was lodged over the increasing number of unlicensed meat outlets in the high-density suburb, prompting investigations by council authorities.
The report said the complaint was found to be genuine after officials carried out investigations in the area.
“Investigations were done and the complaint proved to be genuine. An interdepartmental blitz is being planned to combat these illegal activities,” reads part of the report.
The proliferation of illegal butcheries has raised concerns over public health and food safety, as such operations often function outside regulatory requirements governing meat handling, storage and hygiene standards.
Council officials indicated that the planned blitz will involve several departments working together to identify and take action against operators found violating municipal by-laws and public health regulations.
Illegal butcheries have become increasingly common in some residential areas as entrepreneurs seek to meet growing demand for affordable meat products. However, health experts warn that meat sold through unlicensed outlets may expose consumers to food-borne diseases due to inadequate inspection and poor handling practices.
