Butchery shut down in RAK after viral video of carcass

Owner fined for transporting meat in the back seat of a car

Abutcher shop in Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Nakheel area was shut down yesterday for violating health and safety regulations.

The closure followed a viral video posted on social media by an Emirati that showed that meat was being transported from Ajman to Ras Al Khaimah in an unhygienic manner. The video showed an animal carcass kept on the back seat of a car parked in front of the shop.

The Veterinary Control Department at Ras Al Khaimah Municipality acted on the video and launched an investigation.

Officials seized huge quantities of meat from the shop and sent to the municipal laboratory for analysis to find out if it is fit for human consumption. The car was also impounded.

Shaima’a Al Tunaiji, director of the public health department, said the transporation method adopted by the shopowner was risky. He described it as smuggling of meat.

She added that investigators have identified the meat supplier. “We will take tough action against anyone endangering public health and causing harm to consumers. Public health and safety is our priority,” she said.

The official said that besides shutting down the butchery, a heavy fine will also be imposed on the owner.

The municipality has urged residents to report similar issues on 0561777667.