The Borno State Police Command has arrested five men for allegedly processing and selling meat from dead cattle to unsuspecting consumers in Maiduguri.
According to the police, the suspects were arrested on July 29, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation carried out by officers of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, popularly known as the Crack Squad, at the Old Maiduguri Cattle Market.
The suspects were identified as Modu Umar, 43; Abba Mohammed, 24; Adam Abubakar, 21; Faruq Gambo, 19; and Mada Usman, 24.
Police investigations indicate that the group allegedly obtained cattle that had died naturally, butchered the carcasses, and supplied the meat to roadside vendors for resale to the public.
The suspects were reportedly intercepted while transporting the carcass of a dead cow to the Morumti area of Maiduguri, where the meat was allegedly intended for processing and distribution.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Borno State, Naziru Abdulmajid, described the alleged activity as a serious public health concern. He assured residents that the Command would continue working with relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to prevent the sale of unsafe meat across the state.
The police said investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the operation, identify other individuals involved, and dismantle the suspected distribution network. The suspects are expected to be charged in court after investigations are completed.
To reduce the risk of similar incidents, the police also announced plans to engage abattoir operators, butchers’ associations, livestock traders, meat vendors, and regulatory authorities on the importance of complying with food safety and public health standards.
The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving the slaughter, processing, transportation, or sale of meat to the nearest police station or appropriate government authorities.
