Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has intercepted 4 330kg of smuggled meat and meat products at an illegal crossing point in Beitbridge, in a major operation aimed at protecting public health and safeguarding the economy.
In a statement this Monday, Zimra said the seizure was made possible through the alertness of border security stakeholders.
The contraband comprised 3 480kg of sausages, 810kg of chicken cuts and 40kg of polony.
According to Zimra, the consignment did not have the required biosafety, veterinary and Control of Goods permits.
Some of the products also require an import licence from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce before they can legally enter Zimbabwe.
“Protecting our communities is at the heart of this intervention. This intervention is about more than stopping smuggling.
“It is about protecting our communities and ensuring that meat entering the country complies with the required safety and regulatory standards,” said Zimra.
The statement added that importing meat and meat products requires the necessary biosafety, veterinary and Control of Goods permits.
Some products also require an import licence from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
“We urge the public to buy meat from licensed retailers and never buy or support the trade in smuggled goods,” added the statement.
Smuggled meat poses serious public health risks because it bypasses inspection and cold-chain requirements designed to ensure that meat is safe for consumption.
Unregulated products can, in some instances, carry diseases that threaten both humans and livestock, while also undermining local producers and formal retailers who comply with the law.
The latest seizure comes as Beitbridge continues to be a hotspot for cross-border smuggling because of its busy border with South Africa.
Security teams have intensified patrols at both the official port of entry and known illegal crossing points as authorities step up efforts to curb the illegal trade.
The operation is part of wider efforts to prevent the illegal movement of goods, protect consumers and safeguard legitimate businesses.
