KUALA LUMPUR – Police believe the frozen meat cartel which was the subject of recent revelations for allegedly using fake halal labels involves a wide network, masterminded by local and foreign syndicates.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Huzir Mohamed said this was based on the volume and value of the seizures made prior to this.
“Investigations are being conducted under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for causing fear or alarm to the public.
“In addition, the investigation includes those involved in the acquisition, storage, processing, smuggling, as well as those who manipulate, conspire and bring in the frozen meat through the Approved Permit (AP),” he said in a statement.
Huzir said cops had so far received 13 reports from the public, who were upset following the raid on a warehouse in Senai, Johor, and revelations by the press about companies importing non-certified meat before repackaging them as halal beef for the local market.
It was reported that a local cartel was running said warehouse, where they would repackage smuggled frozen meat from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina.
“The police view these allegations seriously and are committed to overcoming the issue with the cooperation of agencies such as the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, the Department of Veterinary Services, the Department of Malaysian Quarantine Inspection Services and the Customs Department," he said.
He said the syndicate should be brought to justice as it had caused concern among Malaysians as well as outraging the sensitivities of the majority Muslim community.
“The syndicate has also caused dissatisfaction and threatened the peace in the country due to the deceptive actions of the irresponsible parties, which also tarnishes the country's image as a halal hub and has a big impact on the country’s economy,” he said. – Bernama, December 29, 2020
